University of St Andrews Researchhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/8782018-03-19T14:41:27Z2018-03-19T14:41:27ZSex differences in the responses to oviposition site cues by a fish revealed by tests with an artificial hostPhillips, AndréReichard, MartinSmith, Carlhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129712018-03-19T00:16:13Z2017-04-01T00:00:00ZOviposition decisions can have important fitness consequences for offspring. We investigated the responses of European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus, a freshwater fish that spawns in the gills of living unionid mussels, to oviposition site cues. Using an artificial mussel, we manipulated the flow velocity, dissolved oxygen concentration and odour cues of mussels presented to pairs of R. amarus. Females responded positively to mussel odour and to dissolved oxygen cues. Male response was dependent on mussel odour and the flow velocity of water emerging from the artificial mussel. These responses are potentially adaptive, with females responding to cues that indicate the quality of oviposition sites for incubation of eggs. Males responded to cues with implications for optimal sperm allocation.
Funding came from the Czech Science Foundation (13-05872S).
2017-04-01T00:00:00ZPhillips, AndréReichard, MartinSmith, CarlOviposition decisions can have important fitness consequences for offspring. We investigated the responses of European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus, a freshwater fish that spawns in the gills of living unionid mussels, to oviposition site cues. Using an artificial mussel, we manipulated the flow velocity, dissolved oxygen concentration and odour cues of mussels presented to pairs of R. amarus. Females responded positively to mussel odour and to dissolved oxygen cues. Male response was dependent on mussel odour and the flow velocity of water emerging from the artificial mussel. These responses are potentially adaptive, with females responding to cues that indicate the quality of oviposition sites for incubation of eggs. Males responded to cues with implications for optimal sperm allocation.Social class and ideologies of inequality : How they uphold unequal societiesRodriguez-Bailon, RosaBratanova, Boyka AntonovaWillis, GuillermoLopez-Rodriguez, LuciaSturrock, AshleyLoughnan, Stevehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129702018-03-19T00:16:08Z2017-03-17T00:00:00ZEspecially after the Great Recession, many societies are becoming increasingly unequal. This is occurring despite clear evidence that inequality undermines personal and social wellbeing, and impairs the safe functioning of our societies. What individual and situational factors might be acting to maintain and deepen inequality? Although it is known that the main causes of inequality are macro economic, there are also some psychosocial factors that can contribute to maintain and even to heighten it. These last factors will be the focus of this paper. In Study 1, we show that feeling higher class and justifying the economic system together increase the perception that actual resource-distribution is fair, and this in turn reduces the extent to which people see their society as unequal; effectively, social class and system justification blind people to inequality. In Study 2, we go beyond blinded inequality to examine beliefs that oppose wealth redistribution. We measured economic system justification (ESJ) and social dominance (SDO) beliefs, finding that both acted to deepen inequality; people with strong ESJ or SDO tend not to endorse governmental and non-governmental activities that reduce inequality. Further, these effects were mediated by a belief in dispositional poverty (i.e., internal causes for being poor). Combined, these studies point to the important role of individual beliefs about social standing (subjective SES), but especially ideology regarding the organization of society (ESJ, SDO) in maintaining and deepening levels of inequality.
This research was partly supported by grant No. PSI2013-45678P, from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación) to the first author.
2017-03-17T00:00:00ZRodriguez-Bailon, RosaBratanova, Boyka AntonovaWillis, GuillermoLopez-Rodriguez, LuciaSturrock, AshleyLoughnan, SteveEspecially after the Great Recession, many societies are becoming increasingly unequal. This is occurring despite clear evidence that inequality undermines personal and social wellbeing, and impairs the safe functioning of our societies. What individual and situational factors might be acting to maintain and deepen inequality? Although it is known that the main causes of inequality are macro economic, there are also some psychosocial factors that can contribute to maintain and even to heighten it. These last factors will be the focus of this paper. In Study 1, we show that feeling higher class and justifying the economic system together increase the perception that actual resource-distribution is fair, and this in turn reduces the extent to which people see their society as unequal; effectively, social class and system justification blind people to inequality. In Study 2, we go beyond blinded inequality to examine beliefs that oppose wealth redistribution. We measured economic system justification (ESJ) and social dominance (SDO) beliefs, finding that both acted to deepen inequality; people with strong ESJ or SDO tend not to endorse governmental and non-governmental activities that reduce inequality. Further, these effects were mediated by a belief in dispositional poverty (i.e., internal causes for being poor). Combined, these studies point to the important role of individual beliefs about social standing (subjective SES), but especially ideology regarding the organization of society (ESJ, SDO) in maintaining and deepening levels of inequality.The concept of energy justice across the disciplinesHeffron, Raphael J.McCauley, Darrenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129692018-03-18T01:39:18Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZOver the last decade, ‘Energy Justice’ is a concept that has emerged in research across many disciplines. This research explores the role and value of the energy justice concept across the disciplines. It provides the first critical account of the emergence of the energy justice concept in both research and practice. A diagrammatical image for examining the energy justice concepts is presented and this is a tool for interdisciplinary engagement with the concept. In this context, restorative justice is introduced and how it results in energy justice applying in practice is detailed. Energy research scholarship at universities is assessed and it is clear that through universities there is a platform for energy justice scholarship to build on the interdisciplinary energy scholarship at universities. Further, the role of education is vital to policy-making, and the understanding and development of the energy justice concept. Finally, in analysing how the energy justice concept can impact on policy-making, there is a critical examination of the energy justice and its relationship with economics, and how it can transfer directly into practice by assisting in balancing the competing aims of the energy trilemma.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZHeffron, Raphael J.McCauley, DarrenOver the last decade, ‘Energy Justice’ is a concept that has emerged in research across many disciplines. This research explores the role and value of the energy justice concept across the disciplines. It provides the first critical account of the emergence of the energy justice concept in both research and practice. A diagrammatical image for examining the energy justice concepts is presented and this is a tool for interdisciplinary engagement with the concept. In this context, restorative justice is introduced and how it results in energy justice applying in practice is detailed. Energy research scholarship at universities is assessed and it is clear that through universities there is a platform for energy justice scholarship to build on the interdisciplinary energy scholarship at universities. Further, the role of education is vital to policy-making, and the understanding and development of the energy justice concept. Finally, in analysing how the energy justice concept can impact on policy-making, there is a critical examination of the energy justice and its relationship with economics, and how it can transfer directly into practice by assisting in balancing the competing aims of the energy trilemma.Exploring mixed-scale gesture interactionEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron JohnYeo, Hui ShyongIrani, PourangPiumsomboon, ThammathipBillinghurst, Markhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129672018-03-17T00:16:18Z2017-11-27T00:00:00ZThis paper presents ongoing work toward a design exploration for combining microgestures with other types of gestures within the greater lexicon of gestures for computer interaction. We describe three prototype applications that show various facets of this multi-dimensional design space. These applications portray various tasks on a Hololens Augmented Reality display, using different combinations of wearable sensors.
2017-11-27T00:00:00ZEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron JohnYeo, Hui ShyongIrani, PourangPiumsomboon, ThammathipBillinghurst, MarkThis paper presents ongoing work toward a design exploration for combining microgestures with other types of gestures within the greater lexicon of gestures for computer interaction. We describe three prototype applications that show various facets of this multi-dimensional design space. These applications portray various tasks on a Hololens Augmented Reality display, using different combinations of wearable sensors.Multi-scale gestural interaction for augmented realityEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron JohnYeo, Hui ShyongIrani, PourangBillinghurst, Markhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129662018-03-17T00:16:25Z2017-11-27T00:00:00ZWe present a multi-scale gestural interface for augmented reality applications. With virtual objects, gestural interactions such as pointing and grasping can be convenient and intuitive, however they are imprecise, socially awkward, and susceptible to fatigue. Our prototype application uses multiple sensors to detect gestures from both arm and hand motions (macro-scale), and finger gestures (micro-scale). Micro-gestures can provide precise input through a belt-worn sensor configuration, with the hand in a relaxed posture. We present an application that combines direct manipulation with microgestures for precise interaction, beyond the capabilities of direct manipulation alone.
2017-11-27T00:00:00ZEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron JohnYeo, Hui ShyongIrani, PourangBillinghurst, MarkWe present a multi-scale gestural interface for augmented reality applications. With virtual objects, gestural interactions such as pointing and grasping can be convenient and intuitive, however they are imprecise, socially awkward, and susceptible to fatigue. Our prototype application uses multiple sensors to detect gestures from both arm and hand motions (macro-scale), and finger gestures (micro-scale). Micro-gestures can provide precise input through a belt-worn sensor configuration, with the hand in a relaxed posture. We present an application that combines direct manipulation with microgestures for precise interaction, beyond the capabilities of direct manipulation alone.Tangible UI by object and material classification with radarYeo, Hui ShyongEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron Johnhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129652018-03-17T00:16:24Z2017-11-27T00:00:00ZRadar signals penetrate, scatter, absorb and reflect energy into proximate objects and ground penetrating and aerial radar systems are well established. We describe a highly accurate system based on a combination of a monostatic radar (Google Soli), supervised machine learning to support object and material classification based Uls. Based on RadarCat techniques, we explore the development of tangible user interfaces without modification of the objects or complex infrastructures. This affords new forms of interaction with digital devices, proximate objects and micro-gestures.
2017-11-27T00:00:00ZYeo, Hui ShyongEns, BarrettQuigley, Aaron JohnRadar signals penetrate, scatter, absorb and reflect energy into proximate objects and ground penetrating and aerial radar systems are well established. We describe a highly accurate system based on a combination of a monostatic radar (Google Soli), supervised machine learning to support object and material classification based Uls. Based on RadarCat techniques, we explore the development of tangible user interfaces without modification of the objects or complex infrastructures. This affords new forms of interaction with digital devices, proximate objects and micro-gestures.Galaxy and Mass Assembly (GAMA) : morphological transformation of galaxies across the green valleyBremer, M. N.Phillipps, S.Kelvin, L. S.Propris, R. DeKennedy, RebeccaMoffett, Amanda J.Bamford, S.Davies, L. J. M.Driver, S. P.Häußler, B.Holwerda, B.Hopkins, A.James, P. A.Liske, J.Percival, S.Taylor, E. N.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129642018-03-18T00:33:18Z2018-05-01T00:00:00ZWe explore constraints on the joint photometric and morphological evolution of typical low redshift galaxies as they move from the blue cloud through the green valley and on to the red sequence. We select Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA) survey galaxies with 10.25 < log(M*/M⊙) < 10.75 and z < 0.2 classified according to their intrinsic u* − r* colour. From single component Sérsic fits, we find that the stellar mass-sensitive K-band profiles of red and green galaxy populations are very similar while g-band profiles indicate more disc-like morphologies for the green galaxies: apparent (optical) morphological differences arise primarily from radial mass-to-light ratio variations. Two-component fits show that most green galaxies have significant bulge and disc components and that the blue to red evolution is driven by colour change in the disc. Together, these strongly suggest that galaxies evolve from blue to red through secular disc fading and that a strong bulge is present prior to any decline in star formation. The relative abundance of the green population implies a typical time-scale for traversing the green valley ∼1–2 Gyr and is independent of environment, unlike that of the red and blue populations. While environment likely plays a rôle in triggering the passage across the green valley, it appears to have little effect on time taken. These results are consistent with a green valley population dominated by (early type) disc galaxies that are insufficiently supplied with gas to maintain previous levels of disc star formation, eventually attaining passive colours. No single event is needed to quench their star formation.
2018-05-01T00:00:00ZBremer, M. N.Phillipps, S.Kelvin, L. S.Propris, R. DeKennedy, RebeccaMoffett, Amanda J.Bamford, S.Davies, L. J. M.Driver, S. P.Häußler, B.Holwerda, B.Hopkins, A.James, P. A.Liske, J.Percival, S.Taylor, E. N.We explore constraints on the joint photometric and morphological evolution of typical low redshift galaxies as they move from the blue cloud through the green valley and on to the red sequence. We select Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA) survey galaxies with 10.25 < log(M*/M⊙) < 10.75 and z < 0.2 classified according to their intrinsic u* − r* colour. From single component Sérsic fits, we find that the stellar mass-sensitive K-band profiles of red and green galaxy populations are very similar while g-band profiles indicate more disc-like morphologies for the green galaxies: apparent (optical) morphological differences arise primarily from radial mass-to-light ratio variations. Two-component fits show that most green galaxies have significant bulge and disc components and that the blue to red evolution is driven by colour change in the disc. Together, these strongly suggest that galaxies evolve from blue to red through secular disc fading and that a strong bulge is present prior to any decline in star formation. The relative abundance of the green population implies a typical time-scale for traversing the green valley ∼1–2 Gyr and is independent of environment, unlike that of the red and blue populations. While environment likely plays a rôle in triggering the passage across the green valley, it appears to have little effect on time taken. These results are consistent with a green valley population dominated by (early type) disc galaxies that are insufficiently supplied with gas to maintain previous levels of disc star formation, eventually attaining passive colours. No single event is needed to quench their star formation.The SAMI Galaxy Survey : spatially resolving the main sequence of star formationMedling, Anne M.Cortese, LucaCroom, Scott M.Green, Andrew W.Groves, BrentHampton, EliseHo, I-TingDavies, Luke J. M.Kewley, Lisa J.Moffett, Amanda J.Schaefer, Adam L.Taylor, EdwardZafar, TayyabaBekki, KenjiBland-Hawthorn, JossBloom, Jessica V.Brough, SarahBryant, Julia J.Catinella, BarbaraCecil, GeraldColless, MatthewCouch, Warrick J.Drinkwater, Michael J.Driver, Simon P.Federrath, ChristophFoster, CarolineGoldstein, GregoryGoodwin, MichaelHopkins, AndrewLawrence, J. S.Leslie, Sarah K.Lewis, Geraint F.Lorente, Nuria P. F.Owers, Matt S.McDermid, RichardRichards, Samuel N.Sharp, RobertScott, NicholasSweet, Sarah M.Taranu, Dan S.Tescari, EdoardoTonini, ChiaraSande, Jesse van deWalcher, C. JakobWright, Angushttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129632018-03-18T02:30:35Z2018-04-21T00:00:00ZWe present the ∼800 star formation rate maps for the Sydney-AAO Multi-object Integral field spectrograph (SAMI) Galaxy Survey based on H α emission maps, corrected for dust attenuation via the Balmer decrement, that are included in the SAMI Public Data Release 1. We mask out spaxels contaminated by non-stellar emission using the [O iii]/H β, [N ii]/H α, [S ii]/H α, and [O i]/H α line ratios. Using these maps, we examine the global and resolved star-forming main sequences of SAMI galaxies as a function of morphology, environmental density, and stellar mass. Galaxies further below the star-forming main sequence are more likely to have flatter star formation profiles. Early-type galaxies split into two populations with similar stellar masses and central stellar mass surface densities. The main-sequence population has centrally concentrated star formation similar to late-type galaxies, while galaxies >3σ below the main sequence show significantly reduced star formation most strikingly in the nuclear regions. The split populations support a two-step quenching mechanism, wherein halo mass first cuts off the gas supply and remaining gas continues to form stars until the local stellar mass surface density can stabilize the reduced remaining fuel against further star formation. Across all morphologies, galaxies in denser environments show a decreased specific star formation rate from the outside in, supporting an environmental cause for quenching, such as ram-pressure stripping or galaxy interactions.
2018-04-21T00:00:00ZMedling, Anne M.Cortese, LucaCroom, Scott M.Green, Andrew W.Groves, BrentHampton, EliseHo, I-TingDavies, Luke J. M.Kewley, Lisa J.Moffett, Amanda J.Schaefer, Adam L.Taylor, EdwardZafar, TayyabaBekki, KenjiBland-Hawthorn, JossBloom, Jessica V.Brough, SarahBryant, Julia J.Catinella, BarbaraCecil, GeraldColless, MatthewCouch, Warrick J.Drinkwater, Michael J.Driver, Simon P.Federrath, ChristophFoster, CarolineGoldstein, GregoryGoodwin, MichaelHopkins, AndrewLawrence, J. S.Leslie, Sarah K.Lewis, Geraint F.Lorente, Nuria P. F.Owers, Matt S.McDermid, RichardRichards, Samuel N.Sharp, RobertScott, NicholasSweet, Sarah M.Taranu, Dan S.Tescari, EdoardoTonini, ChiaraSande, Jesse van deWalcher, C. JakobWright, AngusWe present the ∼800 star formation rate maps for the Sydney-AAO Multi-object Integral field spectrograph (SAMI) Galaxy Survey based on H α emission maps, corrected for dust attenuation via the Balmer decrement, that are included in the SAMI Public Data Release 1. We mask out spaxels contaminated by non-stellar emission using the [O iii]/H β, [N ii]/H α, [S ii]/H α, and [O i]/H α line ratios. Using these maps, we examine the global and resolved star-forming main sequences of SAMI galaxies as a function of morphology, environmental density, and stellar mass. Galaxies further below the star-forming main sequence are more likely to have flatter star formation profiles. Early-type galaxies split into two populations with similar stellar masses and central stellar mass surface densities. The main-sequence population has centrally concentrated star formation similar to late-type galaxies, while galaxies >3σ below the main sequence show significantly reduced star formation most strikingly in the nuclear regions. The split populations support a two-step quenching mechanism, wherein halo mass first cuts off the gas supply and remaining gas continues to form stars until the local stellar mass surface density can stabilize the reduced remaining fuel against further star formation. Across all morphologies, galaxies in denser environments show a decreased specific star formation rate from the outside in, supporting an environmental cause for quenching, such as ram-pressure stripping or galaxy interactions.Jeans that fit : weighing the mass of the Milky Way analogues in the ΛCDM universeKafle, Prajwal R.Sharma, SanjibRobotham, Aaron S. G.Elahi, Pascal J.Driver, Simon P.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129622018-03-18T00:33:17Z2018-04-21T00:00:00ZThe spherical Jeans equation is a widely used tool for dynamical study of gravitating systems in astronomy. Here, we test its efficacy in robustly weighing the mass of Milky Way analogues, given they need not be in equilibrium or even spherical. Utilizing Milky Way stellar haloes simulated in accordance with Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology by Bullock and Johnston and analysing them under the Jeans formalism, we recover the underlying mass distribution of the parent galaxy, within distance r/kpc ∈ [10, 100], with a bias of ∼ 12 per cent and a dispersion of ∼ 14 per cent. Additionally, the mass profiles of triaxial dark matter haloes taken from the surfs simulation, within scaled radius 0.2 < r/rmax < 3, are measured with a bias of ∼ − 2.4 per cent and a dispersion of ∼ 10 per cent. The obtained dispersion is not because of Poisson noise due to small particle numbers as it is twice the later. We interpret the dispersion to be due to the inherent nature of the ΛCDM haloes, for example being aspherical and out-of-equilibrium. Hence, the dispersion obtained for stellar haloes sets a limit of about 12 per cent (after adjusting for random uncertainty) on the accuracy with which the mass profiles of the Milky Way-like galaxies can be reconstructed using the spherical Jeans equation. This limit is independent of the quantity and quality of the observational data. The reason for a non-zero bias is not clear, hence its interpretation is not obvious at this stage.
2018-04-21T00:00:00ZKafle, Prajwal R.Sharma, SanjibRobotham, Aaron S. G.Elahi, Pascal J.Driver, Simon P.The spherical Jeans equation is a widely used tool for dynamical study of gravitating systems in astronomy. Here, we test its efficacy in robustly weighing the mass of Milky Way analogues, given they need not be in equilibrium or even spherical. Utilizing Milky Way stellar haloes simulated in accordance with Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology by Bullock and Johnston and analysing them under the Jeans formalism, we recover the underlying mass distribution of the parent galaxy, within distance r/kpc ∈ [10, 100], with a bias of ∼ 12 per cent and a dispersion of ∼ 14 per cent. Additionally, the mass profiles of triaxial dark matter haloes taken from the surfs simulation, within scaled radius 0.2 < r/rmax < 3, are measured with a bias of ∼ − 2.4 per cent and a dispersion of ∼ 10 per cent. The obtained dispersion is not because of Poisson noise due to small particle numbers as it is twice the later. We interpret the dispersion to be due to the inherent nature of the ΛCDM haloes, for example being aspherical and out-of-equilibrium. Hence, the dispersion obtained for stellar haloes sets a limit of about 12 per cent (after adjusting for random uncertainty) on the accuracy with which the mass profiles of the Milky Way-like galaxies can be reconstructed using the spherical Jeans equation. This limit is independent of the quantity and quality of the observational data. The reason for a non-zero bias is not clear, hence its interpretation is not obvious at this stage.The first planetary microlensing event with two microlensed source starsBennett, D. P.Udalski, A.Han, C.Bond, I. A.Beaulieu, J. -P.Skowron, J.Gaudi, B. S.Koshimoto, N.Abe, F.Asakura, Y.Barry, R. K.Bhattacharya, A.Donachie, M.Evans, P.Fukui, A.Hirao, Y.Itow, Y.Li, M. C. A.Ling, C. H.Masuda, K.Matsubara, Y.Muraki, Y.Nagakane, M.Ohnishi, K.Oyokawa, H.Ranc, C.Rattenbury, N. J.Rosenthal, M. K.Saito, ToSharan, A.Sullivan, D. J.Sumi, T.Suzuki, D.Tristram, P. J.Yonehara, A.Szymański, M. K.Poleski, R.Soszyński, I.Ulaczyk, K.Wyrzykowski, Ł.DePoy, D.Gould, A.Pogge, R. W.Yee, J. C.Albrow, M. D.Bachelet, E.Batista, V.Bowens-Rubin, R.Brillant, S.Caldwell, J. A. R.Cole, A.Coutures, C.Dieters, S.Prester, D. DominisDonatowicz, J.Fouquė, P.Horne, K.Hundertmark, M.Kains, N.Kane, S. R.Marquette, J. -B.Menzies, J.Pollard, K. R.Ranc, C.Sahu, K. C.Wambsganss, J.Williams, A.Zub, M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129612018-03-18T00:33:17Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZWe present the analysis of the microlensing event MOA-2010-BLG-117, and show that the light curve can only be explained by the gravitational lensing of a binary source star system by a star with a Jupiter-mass ratio planet. It was necessary to modify standard microlensing modeling methods to find the correct light curve solution for this binary source, binary-lens event. We are able to measure a strong microlensing parallax signal, which yields the masses of the host star, M * = 0.58 ± 0.11 M ⊙, and planet, mp = 0.54 ± 0.10MJup, at a projected star–planet separation of a ⊥ = 2.42 ± 0.26 au, corresponding to a semimajor axis of a = 2.9 (^+1.6_-0.6) au. Thus, the system resembles a half-scale model of the Sun–Jupiter system with a half-Jupiter0mass planet orbiting a half-solar-mass star at very roughly half of Jupiter's orbital distance from the Sun. The source stars are slightly evolved, and by requiring them to lie on the same isochrone, we can constrain the source to lie in the near side of the bulge at a distance of DS = 6.9 ± 0.7 kpc, which implies a distance to the planetary lens system of DL = 3.5 ± 0.4 kpc. The ability to model unusual planetary microlensing events, like this one, will be necessary to extract precise statistical information from the planned large exoplanet microlensing surveys, such as the WFIRST microlensing survey.
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZBennett, D. P.Udalski, A.Han, C.Bond, I. A.Beaulieu, J. -P.Skowron, J.Gaudi, B. S.Koshimoto, N.Abe, F.Asakura, Y.Barry, R. K.Bhattacharya, A.Donachie, M.Evans, P.Fukui, A.Hirao, Y.Itow, Y.Li, M. C. A.Ling, C. H.Masuda, K.Matsubara, Y.Muraki, Y.Nagakane, M.Ohnishi, K.Oyokawa, H.Ranc, C.Rattenbury, N. J.Rosenthal, M. K.Saito, ToSharan, A.Sullivan, D. J.Sumi, T.Suzuki, D.Tristram, P. J.Yonehara, A.Szymański, M. K.Poleski, R.Soszyński, I.Ulaczyk, K.Wyrzykowski, Ł.DePoy, D.Gould, A.Pogge, R. W.Yee, J. C.Albrow, M. D.Bachelet, E.Batista, V.Bowens-Rubin, R.Brillant, S.Caldwell, J. A. R.Cole, A.Coutures, C.Dieters, S.Prester, D. DominisDonatowicz, J.Fouquė, P.Horne, K.Hundertmark, M.Kains, N.Kane, S. R.Marquette, J. -B.Menzies, J.Pollard, K. R.Ranc, C.Sahu, K. C.Wambsganss, J.Williams, A.Zub, M.We present the analysis of the microlensing event MOA-2010-BLG-117, and show that the light curve can only be explained by the gravitational lensing of a binary source star system by a star with a Jupiter-mass ratio planet. It was necessary to modify standard microlensing modeling methods to find the correct light curve solution for this binary source, binary-lens event. We are able to measure a strong microlensing parallax signal, which yields the masses of the host star, M * = 0.58 ± 0.11 M ⊙, and planet, mp = 0.54 ± 0.10MJup, at a projected star–planet separation of a ⊥ = 2.42 ± 0.26 au, corresponding to a semimajor axis of a = 2.9 (^+1.6_-0.6) au. Thus, the system resembles a half-scale model of the Sun–Jupiter system with a half-Jupiter0mass planet orbiting a half-solar-mass star at very roughly half of Jupiter's orbital distance from the Sun. The source stars are slightly evolved, and by requiring them to lie on the same isochrone, we can constrain the source to lie in the near side of the bulge at a distance of DS = 6.9 ± 0.7 kpc, which implies a distance to the planetary lens system of DL = 3.5 ± 0.4 kpc. The ability to model unusual planetary microlensing events, like this one, will be necessary to extract precise statistical information from the planned large exoplanet microlensing surveys, such as the WFIRST microlensing survey.The origins of post-starburst galaxies at z < 0.05Pawlik, Milena M.Taj Aldeen, Laith Talib HadiWild, VivienneMendez-Abreu, JairoLahén, NataliaJohansson, Peter H.Jimenez, NoeliaLucas, WilliamZheng, YiruiWalcher, C. JakobRowlands, Katehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129602018-03-18T00:33:16Z2018-03-09T00:00:00ZPost-starburst galaxies can be identified via the presence of prominent Hydrogen Balmer absorption lines in their spectra. We present a comprehensive study of the origin of strong Balmer lines in a volume-limited sample of 189 galaxies with 0.01 < z < 0.05, log (M⋆/M⊙) > 9.5 and projected axis ratio b/a > 0.32. We explore their structural properties, environments, emission lines and star formation histories, and compare them to control samples of star-forming and quiescent galaxies, and simulated galaxy mergers. Excluding contaminants, in which the strong Balmer lines are most likely caused by dust-star geometry, we find evidence for three different pathways through the post-starburst phase, with most events occurring in intermediate-density environments: (1) a significant disruptive event, such as a gas-rich major merger, causing a starburst and growth of a spheroidal component, followed by quenching of the star formation (70% of post-starburst galaxies at 9.5 < log (M⋆/M⊙) < 10.5 and 60% at log (M⋆/M⊙) > 10.5); (2) at 9.5 < log (M⋆/M⊙) < 10.5, stochastic star formation in blue-sequence galaxies, causing a weak burst and subsequent return to the blue sequence (30%); (3) at log (M⋆/M⊙) > 10.5, cyclic evolution of quiescent galaxies which gradually move towards the high-mass end of the red sequence through weak starbursts, possibly as a result of a merger with a smaller gas-rich companion (40%). Our analysis suggests that AGN are ‘on’ for 50% of the duration of the post-starburst phase, meaning that traditional samples of post-starburst galaxies with strict emission line cuts will be at least 50% incomplete due to the exclusion of narrow-line AGN.
MMP, VW, JM-A, NJ and KR acknowledge support of the European Research Council via the award of a starting grant (SEDMorph; P.I. V. Wild). LTA acknowledges support from the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. NL acknowledges the support of the Jenny & Antti Wihuri Foundation. NL and PHJ acknowledge the support of the Academy of Finland project 274931. YZ ac- knowledges support of a China Scholarship Council Univer- sity of St Andrews Scholarship. WL acknowledges support from the ECOGAL project, grant agreement 291227, funded by the European Research Council under ERC-2011-ADG.
2018-03-09T00:00:00ZPawlik, Milena M.Taj Aldeen, Laith Talib HadiWild, VivienneMendez-Abreu, JairoLahén, NataliaJohansson, Peter H.Jimenez, NoeliaLucas, WilliamZheng, YiruiWalcher, C. JakobRowlands, KatePost-starburst galaxies can be identified via the presence of prominent Hydrogen Balmer absorption lines in their spectra. We present a comprehensive study of the origin of strong Balmer lines in a volume-limited sample of 189 galaxies with 0.01 < z < 0.05, log (M⋆/M⊙) > 9.5 and projected axis ratio b/a > 0.32. We explore their structural properties, environments, emission lines and star formation histories, and compare them to control samples of star-forming and quiescent galaxies, and simulated galaxy mergers. Excluding contaminants, in which the strong Balmer lines are most likely caused by dust-star geometry, we find evidence for three different pathways through the post-starburst phase, with most events occurring in intermediate-density environments: (1) a significant disruptive event, such as a gas-rich major merger, causing a starburst and growth of a spheroidal component, followed by quenching of the star formation (70% of post-starburst galaxies at 9.5 < log (M⋆/M⊙) < 10.5 and 60% at log (M⋆/M⊙) > 10.5); (2) at 9.5 < log (M⋆/M⊙) < 10.5, stochastic star formation in blue-sequence galaxies, causing a weak burst and subsequent return to the blue sequence (30%); (3) at log (M⋆/M⊙) > 10.5, cyclic evolution of quiescent galaxies which gradually move towards the high-mass end of the red sequence through weak starbursts, possibly as a result of a merger with a smaller gas-rich companion (40%). Our analysis suggests that AGN are ‘on’ for 50% of the duration of the post-starburst phase, meaning that traditional samples of post-starburst galaxies with strict emission line cuts will be at least 50% incomplete due to the exclusion of narrow-line AGN.Burkholderia cepacia complex and limited cutaneous vasculitis in patients with cystic fibrosis : a case seriesKayria, MuttardiChris, OrchardDhasmana, Devesh JNilesh, MorarHodson, Margaret EKhin, GyiDiana, BiltonSimmonds, Nicholas Jhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129592018-03-19T09:30:05Z2017-04-03T00:00:00ZThere is a high association of reactive skin presentations, mainly limited cutaneous vasculitis in patients with cystic fibrosis and Burkholderia cepcia complex chronic infection. This may be due to raised levels of circulating inflammatory mediators.
2017-04-03T00:00:00ZKayria, MuttardiChris, OrchardDhasmana, Devesh JNilesh, MorarHodson, Margaret EKhin, GyiDiana, BiltonSimmonds, Nicholas JThere is a high association of reactive skin presentations, mainly limited cutaneous vasculitis in patients with cystic fibrosis and Burkholderia cepcia complex chronic infection. This may be due to raised levels of circulating inflammatory mediators.The clustering of the SDSS-IV extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey DR14 quasar sample : anisotropic Baryon Acoustic Oscillations measurements in Fourier-space with optimal redshift weightsWang, DandanZhao, Gong-BoWang, YutingPercival, Will J.Ruggeri, RossanaZhu, FangzhouTojeiro, RitaMyers, Adam D.Chuang, Chia-HsunBaumgarten, FalkZhao, ChengGil-Marín, HéctorRoss, Ashley J.Burtin, EtienneZarrouk, PaulineBautista, JulianBrinkmann, JonathanDawson, KyleBrownstein, Joel R.de la Macorra, AxelSchneider, Donald P.Shafieloo, Armanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129582018-03-17T00:16:23Z2018-03-10T00:00:00ZWe present a measurement of the anisotropic and isotropic Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) from the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey Data Release 14 quasar sample with optimal redshift weights. Applying the redshift weights improves the constraint on the BAO dilation parameter α(zeff) by 17%. We reconstruct the evolution history of the BAO distance indicators in the redshift rangeof 0.8 < z < 2.2. This paper is part of a set that analyses the eBOSS DR14 quasar sample.
2018-03-10T00:00:00ZWang, DandanZhao, Gong-BoWang, YutingPercival, Will J.Ruggeri, RossanaZhu, FangzhouTojeiro, RitaMyers, Adam D.Chuang, Chia-HsunBaumgarten, FalkZhao, ChengGil-Marín, HéctorRoss, Ashley J.Burtin, EtienneZarrouk, PaulineBautista, JulianBrinkmann, JonathanDawson, KyleBrownstein, Joel R.de la Macorra, AxelSchneider, Donald P.Shafieloo, ArmanWe present a measurement of the anisotropic and isotropic Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) from the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey Data Release 14 quasar sample with optimal redshift weights. Applying the redshift weights improves the constraint on the BAO dilation parameter α(zeff) by 17%. We reconstruct the evolution history of the BAO distance indicators in the redshift rangeof 0.8 < z < 2.2. This paper is part of a set that analyses the eBOSS DR14 quasar sample.Interactive simulations for quantum key distributionKohnle, AntjeRizzoli, Alunahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129572018-03-17T00:16:22Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZSecure communication protocols are becoming increasingly important, e.g. for internet-based communication. Quantum key distribution (QKD) allows two parties, commonly called Alice and Bob, to generate a secret sequence of 0s and 1s called a key that is only known to themselves. Classically, Alice and Bob could never be certain that their communication was not compromised by a malicious eavesdropper. Quantum mechanics however makes secure communication possible. The fundamental principle of quantum mechanics that taking a measurement perturbs the system (unless the measurement is compatible with the quantum state) also applies to an eavesdropper. Using appropriate protocols to create the key, Alice and Bob can detect the presence of an eavesdropper by errors in their measurements. As part of the QuVis Quantum Mechanics Visualisation Project, we have developed a suite of four interactive simulations that demonstrate the basic principles of three different QKD protocols. The simulations use either polarised photons or spin 1/2 particles as physical realisations. The simulations and accompanying activities are freely available for use online or download, and run on a wide range of devices including tablets and PCs. Evaluation with students over three years was used to refine the simulations and activities. Preliminary studies show that the refined simulations and activities help students learn the basic principles of QKD at both the introductory and advanced undergraduate levels.
We thank the UK Institute of Physics and the University of St Andrews for funding the simulation development
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZKohnle, AntjeRizzoli, AlunaSecure communication protocols are becoming increasingly important, e.g. for internet-based communication. Quantum key distribution (QKD) allows two parties, commonly called Alice and Bob, to generate a secret sequence of 0s and 1s called a key that is only known to themselves. Classically, Alice and Bob could never be certain that their communication was not compromised by a malicious eavesdropper. Quantum mechanics however makes secure communication possible. The fundamental principle of quantum mechanics that taking a measurement perturbs the system (unless the measurement is compatible with the quantum state) also applies to an eavesdropper. Using appropriate protocols to create the key, Alice and Bob can detect the presence of an eavesdropper by errors in their measurements. As part of the QuVis Quantum Mechanics Visualisation Project, we have developed a suite of four interactive simulations that demonstrate the basic principles of three different QKD protocols. The simulations use either polarised photons or spin 1/2 particles as physical realisations. The simulations and accompanying activities are freely available for use online or download, and run on a wide range of devices including tablets and PCs. Evaluation with students over three years was used to refine the simulations and activities. Preliminary studies show that the refined simulations and activities help students learn the basic principles of QKD at both the introductory and advanced undergraduate levels.Nanoscale tipping bucket effect in a quantum dot transistor-based counterHartmann, F.Maier, P.Rebello Sousa Dias, M.Göpfert, S.Castelano, L. K.Emmerling, M.Schneider, C.Höfling, S.Kamp, M.Pershin, Y. V.Marques, G. E.Lopez-Richard, V.Worschech, L.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129562018-03-17T00:16:19Z2017-04-12T00:00:00ZElectronic circuits composed of one or more elements with inherent memory - memristors, memcapacitors and meminductors - offer lower circuit complexity and enhanced functionality for certain computational tasks. Networks of these elements are proposed for novel computational paradigms that rely on information processing and storage on the same physical platform. We show a nanoscaled memdevice able to act as an electronic analogue of tipping buckets that allows reducing the dimensionality and complexity of a sensing problem by transforming it into a counting problem. The device offers a well adjustable, tunable and reliable periodic reset that is controlled by theamounts of transferred quantum dot charges per gate voltage sweep. When subjected to periodic voltage sweeps the quantum dot (bucket) may require up to several sweeps before a rapid full discharge occurs thus displaying period doubling, period tripling and so on between self-governing reset operations.
The authors are grateful for financial support by the European Union (FPVII (2007-2013) under grant agreement no. 318287 LANDAUER), and the Brazilian Agencies FAPESP (grants 2012/13052 - 6, and 2012/51415 - 3), CNPq and CAPES. V. L.-R. acknowledges the support of FAPESP (grant: 2014/02112-3). Y.V.P. was supported by National Science Foundation grant ECCS-1202383.
2017-04-12T00:00:00ZHartmann, F.Maier, P.Rebello Sousa Dias, M.Göpfert, S.Castelano, L. K.Emmerling, M.Schneider, C.Höfling, S.Kamp, M.Pershin, Y. V.Marques, G. E.Lopez-Richard, V.Worschech, L.Electronic circuits composed of one or more elements with inherent memory - memristors, memcapacitors and meminductors - offer lower circuit complexity and enhanced functionality for certain computational tasks. Networks of these elements are proposed for novel computational paradigms that rely on information processing and storage on the same physical platform. We show a nanoscaled memdevice able to act as an electronic analogue of tipping buckets that allows reducing the dimensionality and complexity of a sensing problem by transforming it into a counting problem. The device offers a well adjustable, tunable and reliable periodic reset that is controlled by theamounts of transferred quantum dot charges per gate voltage sweep. When subjected to periodic voltage sweeps the quantum dot (bucket) may require up to several sweeps before a rapid full discharge occurs thus displaying period doubling, period tripling and so on between self-governing reset operations.Context based interpolation of coarse deep learning prediction maps for the segmentation of fine structures in immunofluorescence imagesBrieu, NicolasGavriel, ChristosHarrison, David JamesCaie, Peter DavidSchmidt, Guenterhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129552018-03-16T00:16:03Z2018-03-06T00:00:00ZThe automatic analysis of digital pathology images is becoming of increasing interest for the development of novel therapeutic drugs and of the associated companion diagnostic tests in oncology. A precise quantification of the tumor microenvironment and therefore an accurate segmentation of the tumor extend are critical in this context. In this paper, we present a new approach based on visual context Random Forest to generate high resolution segmentation maps from Deep Learning coarse segmentation maps. Through an example inimmunofluorescence, we show that this method enables an accurate and fast detection of the tumor structures in terms of qualitative and quantitative evaluation against three baseline approaches. For the method to be resilient to the high variability of staining intensity, a novel locally adaptive normalization algorithm is moreover introduced.
2018-03-06T00:00:00ZBrieu, NicolasGavriel, ChristosHarrison, David JamesCaie, Peter DavidSchmidt, GuenterThe automatic analysis of digital pathology images is becoming of increasing interest for the development of novel therapeutic drugs and of the associated companion diagnostic tests in oncology. A precise quantification of the tumor microenvironment and therefore an accurate segmentation of the tumor extend are critical in this context. In this paper, we present a new approach based on visual context Random Forest to generate high resolution segmentation maps from Deep Learning coarse segmentation maps. Through an example inimmunofluorescence, we show that this method enables an accurate and fast detection of the tumor structures in terms of qualitative and quantitative evaluation against three baseline approaches. For the method to be resilient to the high variability of staining intensity, a novel locally adaptive normalization algorithm is moreover introduced.1-(Benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-phenylureas as dual inhibitors of casein kinase 1 and ABAD enzymes for treatment of neurodegenerative disordersBenek, OndrejHroch, LukasAitken, LauraGunn-Moore, FrankVinklarova, LucieKuca, KamilPerez, Daniel I.Perez, ConcepcionMartinez, AnaFisar, ZdenekMusilek, Kamilhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129542018-03-16T00:16:14Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZSeveral neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been connected with deregulation of casein kinase 1 (CK1) activity. Inhibition of CK1 therefore presents a potential therapeutic strategy against such pathologies. Recently, novel class of CK1-specific inhibitors with N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-phenylacetamide structural scaffold has been discovered. 1-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-phenylureas, on the other hand, are known inhibitors amyloid-beta binding alcohol dehydrogenase (ABAD), an enzyme also involved in pathophysiology of AD. Based on their tight structural similarity, we decided to evaluate series of previously published benzothiazolylphenylureas, originally designed as ABAD inhibitors, for their inhibitory activity towards CK1. Several compounds were found to be submicromolar CK1 inhibitors. Moreover, two compounds were found to inhibit both, ABAD and CK1. Such dual-activity could be of advantage for AD treatment, as it would simultaneously target two distinct pathological processes involved in disease’s progression. Based on PAMPA testing both compounds were suggested to permeate the blood-brain barrier, which makes them, together with their unique dual activity, interesting lead compounds for further development.
This work was supported by the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic [no. NV15-28967 A], Specific Research Project of Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove [no. 2103-2017], National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH CZ; no. ED2.1.00/03.0078] from the European Regional Development Fund, COST CA15135, The Alzheimer’s Society (specifically The Barcopel Foundation), The Rosetrees trust and The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) [no. BB/J01446X/1]. Funding from Ministry of Economy and competitiveness, Spain [no. SAF2012-37979-C03-01] is also acknowledged.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZBenek, OndrejHroch, LukasAitken, LauraGunn-Moore, FrankVinklarova, LucieKuca, KamilPerez, Daniel I.Perez, ConcepcionMartinez, AnaFisar, ZdenekMusilek, KamilSeveral neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been connected with deregulation of casein kinase 1 (CK1) activity. Inhibition of CK1 therefore presents a potential therapeutic strategy against such pathologies. Recently, novel class of CK1-specific inhibitors with N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-phenylacetamide structural scaffold has been discovered. 1-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-phenylureas, on the other hand, are known inhibitors amyloid-beta binding alcohol dehydrogenase (ABAD), an enzyme also involved in pathophysiology of AD. Based on their tight structural similarity, we decided to evaluate series of previously published benzothiazolylphenylureas, originally designed as ABAD inhibitors, for their inhibitory activity towards CK1. Several compounds were found to be submicromolar CK1 inhibitors. Moreover, two compounds were found to inhibit both, ABAD and CK1. Such dual-activity could be of advantage for AD treatment, as it would simultaneously target two distinct pathological processes involved in disease’s progression. Based on PAMPA testing both compounds were suggested to permeate the blood-brain barrier, which makes them, together with their unique dual activity, interesting lead compounds for further development.Pyridine-functionalized carbazole donor and benzophenone acceptor design for thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters in blue organic light emitting diodesPachai Gounder, RajamalliRota Martir, DiegoZysman-Colman, Elihttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129492018-03-16T00:16:09Z2018-03-05T00:00:00ZIn this paper we report a new molecular design approach for blue emitting thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) molecules. The two novel TADF emitters, (4-(3,6-di(pyridin-3-yl)-9H-carbazol-9- yl)phenyl)(phenyl)methanone ( 3PyCzBP ), and (4-(3,6-diphenyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)phenyl)(phenyl)methanone ( 4PyCzBP ) possess a pyridine-functionalized carbazole donor and a benzophenone acceptor. Both compounds shows broad charge-transfer emission in DCM with a λmax at 497 nm and a photoluminescence quantum yield, ΦPL of 56% for 3PyCzBP and a λmax at 477 nm and a ΦPL of 52% for 4PyCzBP . The ΦPL decreased to 18% and 10%, respectively for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP in the presence of O2 confirming that triplet states involved in emission. The PMMA doped (10 wt%) films show blue-shifted emission with λmax at 450 and 449 nm for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP , respectively. The maximum ΦPL of 23.4% is achieved for these compounds in PMMA doped film. Difference in energy between the singlet and triplet excited states (ΔEST) is very small at 0.06 eV and 0.07 eV for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP , respectively. Multilayer organic light emitting diode devices fabricated using these molecules as emitters show that the maximum efficiency (EQEmax) of the blue devices is 5.0%.
The authors thank the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship (MCIF, no 749557), the Leverhulme Trust (RPG-2016-047) and EPSRC (EP/P010482/1) for financial support.
2018-03-05T00:00:00ZPachai Gounder, RajamalliRota Martir, DiegoZysman-Colman, EliIn this paper we report a new molecular design approach for blue emitting thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) molecules. The two novel TADF emitters, (4-(3,6-di(pyridin-3-yl)-9H-carbazol-9- yl)phenyl)(phenyl)methanone ( 3PyCzBP ), and (4-(3,6-diphenyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)phenyl)(phenyl)methanone ( 4PyCzBP ) possess a pyridine-functionalized carbazole donor and a benzophenone acceptor. Both compounds shows broad charge-transfer emission in DCM with a λmax at 497 nm and a photoluminescence quantum yield, ΦPL of 56% for 3PyCzBP and a λmax at 477 nm and a ΦPL of 52% for 4PyCzBP . The ΦPL decreased to 18% and 10%, respectively for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP in the presence of O2 confirming that triplet states involved in emission. The PMMA doped (10 wt%) films show blue-shifted emission with λmax at 450 and 449 nm for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP , respectively. The maximum ΦPL of 23.4% is achieved for these compounds in PMMA doped film. Difference in energy between the singlet and triplet excited states (ΔEST) is very small at 0.06 eV and 0.07 eV for 3PyCzBP and 4PyCzBP , respectively. Multilayer organic light emitting diode devices fabricated using these molecules as emitters show that the maximum efficiency (EQEmax) of the blue devices is 5.0%.Eyes on K2-3 : a system of three likely sub-Neptunes characterized with HARPS-N and HARPSDamasso, M.Bonomo, A. S.Astudillo-Defru, N.Bonfils, X.Malavolta, L.Sozzetti, A.Lopez, E.Zeng, L.Haywood, R. D.Irwin, J. M.Mortier, A.Vanderburg, A.Maldonado, J.Lanza, A. F.Affer, L.Almenara, J.-M.Benatti, S.Biazzo, K.Bignamini, A.Borsa, F.Bouchy, F.Buchhave, L. A.Cameron, A. C.Carleo, I.Charbonneau, D.Claudi, R.Cosentino, R.Covino, E.Delfosse, X.Desidera, S.Di Fabrizio, L.Dressing, C.Esposito, M.Fares, R.Figueira, P.Fiorenzano, A. F. M.Forveille, T.Giacobbe, P.González-Álvarez, E.Gratton, R.Harutyunyan, A.Johnson, J. AsherLatham, D. W.Leto, G.Lopez-Morales, M.Lovis, C.Maggio, A.Mancini, L.Masiero, S.Mayor, M.Micela, G.Molinari, E.Motalebi, F.Murgas, F.Nascimbeni, V.Pagano, I.Pepe, F.Phillips, D. F.Piotto, G.Poretti, E.Rainer, M.Rice, K.Santos, N. C.Sasselov, D.Scandariato, G.Ségransan, D.Smareglia, R.Udry, S.Watson, C.Wünsche, A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129422018-03-18T00:33:15Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZContext. M-dwarf stars are promising targets for identifying and characterizing potentially habitable planets. K2-3 is a nearby (45pc), early-type M dwarf hosting three small transiting planets, the outermost of which orbits close to the inner edge of the stellar (optimistic) habitable zone. The K2-3 system is well suited for follow-up characterization studies aimed at determining accurate masses and bulk densities of the three planets. Aims. Using a total of 329 radial velocity measurements collected over 2.5 years with the HARPS-N and HARPS spectrographs and a proper treatment of the stellar activity signal, we aim to improve measurements of the masses and bulk densities of the K2-3 planets. We use our results to investigate the physical structure of the planets. Methods. We analyse radial velocity time series extracted with two independent pipelines by using Gaussian process regression. We adopt a quasi-periodic kernel to model the stellar magnetic activity jointly with the planetary signals. We use Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the robustness of our mass measurements of K2-3 c and K2-3 d, and to explore how additional high-cadence radial velocity observations might improve them. Results. Despite the stellar activity component being the strongest signal present in the radial velocity time series, we are able to derive masses for both planet b (Mb = 6.6 ± 1.1 M⊕) and planet c (Mc=3.1(^+1.3_−1.2)M⊕). The Doppler signal due to K2-3 d remains undetected, likely because of its low amplitude compared to the radial velocity signal induced by the stellar activity. The closeness of the orbital period of K2-3 d to the stellar rotation period could also make the detection of the planetary signal complicated. Based on our ability to recover injected signals in simulated data, we tentatively estimate the mass of K2-3 d to be Md = 2.7(^+1.2_−0.8) M⊕. These mass measurements imply that the bulk densities and therefore the interior structures of the three planets may be similar. In particular, the planets may either have small H/He envelopes (<1%) or massive water layers (with a water content ≥50% of their total mass) on top of rocky cores. Placing further constraints on the bulk densities of K2-3 c and d will be difficult; in particular, even by adoptinga semester of intense, high-cadence radial velocity observations with HARPS-N and HARPS we would not have been able to detec tthe Doppler signal of K2-3 d.
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZDamasso, M.Bonomo, A. S.Astudillo-Defru, N.Bonfils, X.Malavolta, L.Sozzetti, A.Lopez, E.Zeng, L.Haywood, R. D.Irwin, J. M.Mortier, A.Vanderburg, A.Maldonado, J.Lanza, A. F.Affer, L.Almenara, J.-M.Benatti, S.Biazzo, K.Bignamini, A.Borsa, F.Bouchy, F.Buchhave, L. A.Cameron, A. C.Carleo, I.Charbonneau, D.Claudi, R.Cosentino, R.Covino, E.Delfosse, X.Desidera, S.Di Fabrizio, L.Dressing, C.Esposito, M.Fares, R.Figueira, P.Fiorenzano, A. F. M.Forveille, T.Giacobbe, P.González-Álvarez, E.Gratton, R.Harutyunyan, A.Johnson, J. AsherLatham, D. W.Leto, G.Lopez-Morales, M.Lovis, C.Maggio, A.Mancini, L.Masiero, S.Mayor, M.Micela, G.Molinari, E.Motalebi, F.Murgas, F.Nascimbeni, V.Pagano, I.Pepe, F.Phillips, D. F.Piotto, G.Poretti, E.Rainer, M.Rice, K.Santos, N. C.Sasselov, D.Scandariato, G.Ségransan, D.Smareglia, R.Udry, S.Watson, C.Wünsche, A.Context. M-dwarf stars are promising targets for identifying and characterizing potentially habitable planets. K2-3 is a nearby (45pc), early-type M dwarf hosting three small transiting planets, the outermost of which orbits close to the inner edge of the stellar (optimistic) habitable zone. The K2-3 system is well suited for follow-up characterization studies aimed at determining accurate masses and bulk densities of the three planets. Aims. Using a total of 329 radial velocity measurements collected over 2.5 years with the HARPS-N and HARPS spectrographs and a proper treatment of the stellar activity signal, we aim to improve measurements of the masses and bulk densities of the K2-3 planets. We use our results to investigate the physical structure of the planets. Methods. We analyse radial velocity time series extracted with two independent pipelines by using Gaussian process regression. We adopt a quasi-periodic kernel to model the stellar magnetic activity jointly with the planetary signals. We use Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the robustness of our mass measurements of K2-3 c and K2-3 d, and to explore how additional high-cadence radial velocity observations might improve them. Results. Despite the stellar activity component being the strongest signal present in the radial velocity time series, we are able to derive masses for both planet b (Mb = 6.6 ± 1.1 M⊕) and planet c (Mc=3.1(^+1.3_−1.2)M⊕). The Doppler signal due to K2-3 d remains undetected, likely because of its low amplitude compared to the radial velocity signal induced by the stellar activity. The closeness of the orbital period of K2-3 d to the stellar rotation period could also make the detection of the planetary signal complicated. Based on our ability to recover injected signals in simulated data, we tentatively estimate the mass of K2-3 d to be Md = 2.7(^+1.2_−0.8) M⊕. These mass measurements imply that the bulk densities and therefore the interior structures of the three planets may be similar. In particular, the planets may either have small H/He envelopes (<1%) or massive water layers (with a water content ≥50% of their total mass) on top of rocky cores. Placing further constraints on the bulk densities of K2-3 c and d will be difficult; in particular, even by adoptinga semester of intense, high-cadence radial velocity observations with HARPS-N and HARPS we would not have been able to detec tthe Doppler signal of K2-3 d.Itchy Nose : discreet gesture interaction using EOG sensors in smart eyewearLee, JuyoungYeo, Hui ShyongDhuliawala, MurtazaAkano, JedidiahShimizu, JunichiStarner, ThadQuigley, Aaron JohnWoo, WoontackKunze, Kaihttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129382018-03-15T00:16:10Z2017-09-11T00:00:00ZWe propose a sensing technique for detecting finger movements on the nose, using EOG sensors embedded in the frame of a pair of eyeglasses. Eyeglasses wearers can use their fingers to exert different types of movement on the nose, such as flicking, pushing or rubbing. These subtle gestures can be used to control a wearable computer without calling attention to the user in public. We present two user studies where we test recognition accuracy for these movements.
2017-09-11T00:00:00ZLee, JuyoungYeo, Hui ShyongDhuliawala, MurtazaAkano, JedidiahShimizu, JunichiStarner, ThadQuigley, Aaron JohnWoo, WoontackKunze, KaiWe propose a sensing technique for detecting finger movements on the nose, using EOG sensors embedded in the frame of a pair of eyeglasses. Eyeglasses wearers can use their fingers to exert different types of movement on the nose, such as flicking, pushing or rubbing. These subtle gestures can be used to control a wearable computer without calling attention to the user in public. We present two user studies where we test recognition accuracy for these movements.Can topological transitions be exploited to engineer intrinsically quench-resistant wires?Whittlesea, PhilipQuintanilla, JorgeAnnett, James F.Hillier, Adrian D.Hooley, Chrishttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129372018-03-16T09:30:11Z2018-06-01T00:00:00ZIn this paper, we investigate whether by synthesizing superconductors that are tuned to a topological, node-reconstruction transition point, we could create superconducting wires that are intrinsically resilient to quenches. Recent work shows that the exponent characterizing the temperature dependence of the specific heat of a nodal superconductor is lowered over a region of the phase diagram near topological transitions where nodal lines form or reconnect. Our idea is that the resulting enhancement of the low-temperature specific heat could have a potential application in the prevention of superconductor quenches. We perform numerical simulations of a simplified superconductor quench model. Results show that decreasing the specific heat exponent can prevent a quench from occurring and improve quench resilience, though in our simple model the effects are small. Further work will be necessary to establish the practical feasibility of this approach.
This work was supported by EPSRC through the project “Unconventional superconductors: New paradigms for new materials” under Grant EP/P00749X/1 and Grant EP/P007392/1. The work of P. Whittlesea was supported by a University of Kent 50th Anniversary Scholarship. The work of J. Quintanilla was supported by a SEPnet Fellowship held during the early stages of this work.
2018-06-01T00:00:00ZWhittlesea, PhilipQuintanilla, JorgeAnnett, James F.Hillier, Adrian D.Hooley, ChrisIn this paper, we investigate whether by synthesizing superconductors that are tuned to a topological, node-reconstruction transition point, we could create superconducting wires that are intrinsically resilient to quenches. Recent work shows that the exponent characterizing the temperature dependence of the specific heat of a nodal superconductor is lowered over a region of the phase diagram near topological transitions where nodal lines form or reconnect. Our idea is that the resulting enhancement of the low-temperature specific heat could have a potential application in the prevention of superconductor quenches. We perform numerical simulations of a simplified superconductor quench model. Results show that decreasing the specific heat exponent can prevent a quench from occurring and improve quench resilience, though in our simple model the effects are small. Further work will be necessary to establish the practical feasibility of this approach.Geospatial big data and cartography : research challenges and opportunities for making maps that matterRobinson, Anthony C.Demsar, UrskaMoore, Antoni B.Buckley, AileenJiang, BinField, KennethKraak, Menno-JanCamboim, Silvana PSluter, Claudia Rhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129342018-03-15T00:16:11Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZGeospatial big data present a new set of challenges and opportunities for cartographic researchers in technical, methodological, and artistic realms. New computational and technical paradigms for cartography are accompanying the rise of geospatial big data. Additionally, the art and science of cartography needs to focus its contemporary efforts on work that connects to outside disciplines and is grounded in problems that are important to humankind and its sustainability. Following the development of position papers and a collaborative workshop to craft consensus around key topics, this article presents a new cartographic research agenda focused on making maps that matter using geospatial big data. This agenda provides both long-term challenges that require significant attention as well as short-term opportunities that we believe could be addressed in more concentrated studies.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZRobinson, Anthony C.Demsar, UrskaMoore, Antoni B.Buckley, AileenJiang, BinField, KennethKraak, Menno-JanCamboim, Silvana PSluter, Claudia RGeospatial big data present a new set of challenges and opportunities for cartographic researchers in technical, methodological, and artistic realms. New computational and technical paradigms for cartography are accompanying the rise of geospatial big data. Additionally, the art and science of cartography needs to focus its contemporary efforts on work that connects to outside disciplines and is grounded in problems that are important to humankind and its sustainability. Following the development of position papers and a collaborative workshop to craft consensus around key topics, this article presents a new cartographic research agenda focused on making maps that matter using geospatial big data. This agenda provides both long-term challenges that require significant attention as well as short-term opportunities that we believe could be addressed in more concentrated studies.SDSS-IV MaNGA : the spectroscopic discovery of strongly lensed galaxiesTalbot, Michael S.Brownstein, Joel R.Bolton, Adam S.Bundy, KevinAndrews, Brett H.Cherinka, BrianCollett, Thomas E.More, AnupreetaMore, SurhudSonnenfeld, AlessandroVegetti, SimonaWake, David A.Weijmans, Anne-MarieWestfall, Kyle B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129312018-03-18T00:33:14Z2018-03-10T00:00:00ZWe present a catalogue of 38 spectroscopically detected strong galaxy-galaxy gravitational lens candidates identified in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV (SDSS-IV). We were able to simulate narrow-band images for 8 of them demonstrating evidence of multiple images. Two of our systems are compound lens candidates, each with 2 background source-planes. One of these compound systems shows clear lensing features in the narrow-band image. Our sample is based on 2812 galaxies observed by the Mapping Nearby Galaxies at APO (MaNGA) integral field unit (IFU). This Spectroscopic Identification of Lensing Objects (SILO) survey extends the methodology of the Sloan Lens ACS Survey (SLACS) and BOSS Emission-Line Survey (BELLS) to lower redshift and multiple IFU spectra. We searched ∼1.5 million spectra, of which 3065 contained multiple high signal-to-noise background emission-lines or a resolved [O ii] doublet, that are included in this catalogue. Upon manual inspection, we discovered regions with multiple spectra containing background emission-lines at the same redshift, providing evidence of a common source-plane geometry which was not possible in previous SLACS and BELLS discovery programs. We estimate more than half of our candidates have an Einstein radius ≳ 1.7”, which is significantly greater than seen in SLACS and BELLS. These larger Einstein radii produce more extended images of the background galaxy increasing the probability that a background emission-line will enter one of the IFU spectroscopic fibres, making detection more likely.
Funding: Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship (AW).
2018-03-10T00:00:00ZTalbot, Michael S.Brownstein, Joel R.Bolton, Adam S.Bundy, KevinAndrews, Brett H.Cherinka, BrianCollett, Thomas E.More, AnupreetaMore, SurhudSonnenfeld, AlessandroVegetti, SimonaWake, David A.Weijmans, Anne-MarieWestfall, Kyle B.We present a catalogue of 38 spectroscopically detected strong galaxy-galaxy gravitational lens candidates identified in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV (SDSS-IV). We were able to simulate narrow-band images for 8 of them demonstrating evidence of multiple images. Two of our systems are compound lens candidates, each with 2 background source-planes. One of these compound systems shows clear lensing features in the narrow-band image. Our sample is based on 2812 galaxies observed by the Mapping Nearby Galaxies at APO (MaNGA) integral field unit (IFU). This Spectroscopic Identification of Lensing Objects (SILO) survey extends the methodology of the Sloan Lens ACS Survey (SLACS) and BOSS Emission-Line Survey (BELLS) to lower redshift and multiple IFU spectra. We searched ∼1.5 million spectra, of which 3065 contained multiple high signal-to-noise background emission-lines or a resolved [O ii] doublet, that are included in this catalogue. Upon manual inspection, we discovered regions with multiple spectra containing background emission-lines at the same redshift, providing evidence of a common source-plane geometry which was not possible in previous SLACS and BELLS discovery programs. We estimate more than half of our candidates have an Einstein radius ≳ 1.7”, which is significantly greater than seen in SLACS and BELLS. These larger Einstein radii produce more extended images of the background galaxy increasing the probability that a background emission-line will enter one of the IFU spectroscopic fibres, making detection more likely.Using agent-based models to understand the role of individuals in the song evolution of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)Mcloughlin, MichaelLamoni, LucaGarland, Ellen C.Ingram, SimonKirke, AlexisNoad, Michael J.Rendell, LukeMiranda, Eduardohttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129292018-03-14T00:16:36Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZMale humpback whales produce hierarchically structured songs, primarily during the breeding season. These songs gradually change over the course of the breeding season, and are generally population specific. However, instances have been recorded of more rapid song changes where the song of a population can be replaced by the song of an adjacent population. The mechanisms that drive these changes are not currently understood, and difficulties in tracking individual whales over long migratory routes mean field studies to understand these mechanisms are not feasible. In order to help understand the mechanisms that drive these song changes, we present here a spatially explicit agent-based model inspired by methods used in computer music research. We model the migratory patterns of humpback whales, a simple song learning and production method coupled with sound transmission loss, and how often singing occurs during these migratory cycles. This model is then extended to include learning biases that may be responsible for driving changes in the song, such as a bias towards novel song, production errors, and the coupling of novel song bias and production errors. While none of the methods showed population song replacement, our model shows that shared feeding grounds where conspecifics are able to mix provides key opportunities for cultural transmission, and production errors facilitated gradually changing songs. Our results point towards other learning biases being necessary in order for population song replacement to occur.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZMcloughlin, MichaelLamoni, LucaGarland, Ellen C.Ingram, SimonKirke, AlexisNoad, Michael J.Rendell, LukeMiranda, EduardoMale humpback whales produce hierarchically structured songs, primarily during the breeding season. These songs gradually change over the course of the breeding season, and are generally population specific. However, instances have been recorded of more rapid song changes where the song of a population can be replaced by the song of an adjacent population. The mechanisms that drive these changes are not currently understood, and difficulties in tracking individual whales over long migratory routes mean field studies to understand these mechanisms are not feasible. In order to help understand the mechanisms that drive these song changes, we present here a spatially explicit agent-based model inspired by methods used in computer music research. We model the migratory patterns of humpback whales, a simple song learning and production method coupled with sound transmission loss, and how often singing occurs during these migratory cycles. This model is then extended to include learning biases that may be responsible for driving changes in the song, such as a bias towards novel song, production errors, and the coupling of novel song bias and production errors. While none of the methods showed population song replacement, our model shows that shared feeding grounds where conspecifics are able to mix provides key opportunities for cultural transmission, and production errors facilitated gradually changing songs. Our results point towards other learning biases being necessary in order for population song replacement to occur.Modification of the LSCM-GDC cathode to enhance performance for high temperature CO2 electrolysis via solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs)Yue, XianglingIrvine, Johnhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129242018-03-14T00:16:12Z2017-04-21T00:00:00ZExtensive efforts have been made to find new fuel electrode materials for solid oxide cells with high activity and durability to provide more robust materials than the state-of-the-art material, the Ni-cermet . In the present study, a Ni-free cathode is presented with competitive performance and higher durability than a well-behaved Ni-YSZ cermet for CO2 electrolysis via SOEC. A (La, Sr)(Cr, Mn)O3/(Gd, Ce)O2 (LSCM/GDC) cathode fabricated by vacuum infiltration of GDC nitrate solutions into a LSCM/YSZ (8 mol% yttria stabilised zirconia) skeleton is reported. A porous YSZ layer introduced between the dense electrolyte and this cathode helps to maintain a good cathode/electrolyte interface, whilst the nano-structured GDC phase introduced on the surface of LSCM/YSZ backbone is advantageous to boost the cathode electrochemical and catalytic properties towards CO2 reduction by SOEC. Vacuum impregnation therefore offers an effective means to modify the microstructure of LSCM/GDC material set used as cathode for high temperature CO2 electrolysis. With the doping of Pd co-catalyst after GDC impregnation, the cathode activity of the GDC impregnated LSCM material is further enhanced for high temperature CO2 electrolysis, and the 0.5wt% Pd and GDC co-impregnated LSCM cathode achieves an Rp value of 0.24 Ω cm2 at OCV at 900oC in CO2-CO 70-30 mixture, a comparable level to a high performance Ni-YSZ cathode operated in the identical conditions.
This work was funded by Overseas Research Students Awards Scheme (ORSAS), University of St Andrews and by RCUK Energy Supergen programme on H-Delivery and EPSRC Platform and Senior fellowship programs (EP/G01244X/1). JTSI acknowledges the Wolfson Research Merit Award (WRMA 2012/R2).
2017-04-21T00:00:00ZYue, XianglingIrvine, JohnExtensive efforts have been made to find new fuel electrode materials for solid oxide cells with high activity and durability to provide more robust materials than the state-of-the-art material, the Ni-cermet . In the present study, a Ni-free cathode is presented with competitive performance and higher durability than a well-behaved Ni-YSZ cermet for CO2 electrolysis via SOEC. A (La, Sr)(Cr, Mn)O3/(Gd, Ce)O2 (LSCM/GDC) cathode fabricated by vacuum infiltration of GDC nitrate solutions into a LSCM/YSZ (8 mol% yttria stabilised zirconia) skeleton is reported. A porous YSZ layer introduced between the dense electrolyte and this cathode helps to maintain a good cathode/electrolyte interface, whilst the nano-structured GDC phase introduced on the surface of LSCM/YSZ backbone is advantageous to boost the cathode electrochemical and catalytic properties towards CO2 reduction by SOEC. Vacuum impregnation therefore offers an effective means to modify the microstructure of LSCM/GDC material set used as cathode for high temperature CO2 electrolysis. With the doping of Pd co-catalyst after GDC impregnation, the cathode activity of the GDC impregnated LSCM material is further enhanced for high temperature CO2 electrolysis, and the 0.5wt% Pd and GDC co-impregnated LSCM cathode achieves an Rp value of 0.24 Ω cm2 at OCV at 900oC in CO2-CO 70-30 mixture, a comparable level to a high performance Ni-YSZ cathode operated in the identical conditions.Marketization, marketing and the production of international student migrationFindlay, Allan MMcCollum, DavidPackwood, Helenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129232018-03-14T00:33:05Z2017-05-11T00:00:00Z2017-05-11T00:00:00ZFindlay, Allan MMcCollum, DavidPackwood, HelenEU-LAC-Museums. Museums and community : concepts, experiences and sustainability in Europe, Latin America and the CaribbeanBrown, Karen ElizabethRaposo, Luishttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129222018-03-12T17:30:10Z2018-01-01T00:00:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZBrown, Karen ElizabethRaposo, LuisNovel methods for capturing variation in unintended pregnancy across time and placeKeenan, Katherinehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129182018-03-18T02:30:35Z2018-04-01T00:00:00Z2018-04-01T00:00:00ZKeenan, KatherineDetecting gamma frequency neural activity using simultaneous multiband EEG-fMRIUji, MakotoWilson, RossFrancis, SusanMayhew, StephenMullinger, Karenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129142018-03-13T00:16:24Z2017-04-01T00:00:00ZSynopsis (≤ 100 words): We establish a methodology for optimal combination of simultaneous EEG recording with sparse multiband fMRI that preserves high resolution, whole brain fMRI coverage with broad-band EEG signal measurement uncorrupted by MR gradient artefacts. We demonstrate the ability of this approach to record gamma frequency (>50Hz) EEG signals, that are usually obscured during continuous fMRI data acquisition. In a novel application to a motor task we observe a positive correlation between gamma and BOLD responses, supporting and extending previous findings concerning the coupling between neural and haemodynamic measures of brain activity.
The authors thank the Birmingham-Nottingham Strategic Collaboration Fund for funding this research.
2017-04-01T00:00:00ZUji, MakotoWilson, RossFrancis, SusanMayhew, StephenMullinger, KarenSynopsis (≤ 100 words): We establish a methodology for optimal combination of simultaneous EEG recording with sparse multiband fMRI that preserves high resolution, whole brain fMRI coverage with broad-band EEG signal measurement uncorrupted by MR gradient artefacts. We demonstrate the ability of this approach to record gamma frequency (>50Hz) EEG signals, that are usually obscured during continuous fMRI data acquisition. In a novel application to a motor task we observe a positive correlation between gamma and BOLD responses, supporting and extending previous findings concerning the coupling between neural and haemodynamic measures of brain activity.Agreement between hospital and primary care on diagnostic labeling for COPD and heart failure in Toronto, Canada : a cross-sectional observational studyGriever, MichelleSullivan, FrankKalia, SumeetAliarzadeh, BabakSharma, DeepakBernard, StevenMeaney, ChristopherMoineddin, RahimEisen, DavidRahman, NavidD'Urzo, Tonyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129132018-03-18T00:33:13Z2018-03-09T00:00:00ZPatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure (HF) are frequently cared for in hospital and in primary care settings. We studied labeling agreement for COPD and HF for patients seen in both settings in Toronto, Canada. This was a retrospective observational study using linked hospital-primary care electronic data from 70 family physicians. Patients were 20 years of age or more and had at least one visit in both settings between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014. We recorded labeling concordance and associations with clinical factors. We used capture-recapture models to estimate the size of the populations. COPD concordance was 34%; the odds ratios (ORs) of concordance increased with aging (OR 1.84 for age 75+ vs. <65, 95% CI 0.92–3.69) and more inpatient admissions (OR 2.89 for 3+ visits vs. 0 visits, 95% CI 1.59–5.26). HF concordance was 33%; the ORs of concordance decreased with aging (OR 0.39 for 75+ vs. <65, 95% CI 0.18–0.86) and increased with more admissions (OR = 2.39; 95% CI 1.33–4.30 for 3+ visits vs. 0 visits). Based on capture-recapture models, 21–24% additional patients with COPD and18–20% additional patients with HF did not have a label in either setting. The primary care prevalence was estimated as 748 COPD patients and 834 HF patients per 100,000 enrolled adult patients. Agreement levels for COPD and HF were low and labeling was incomplete. Further research is needed to improve labeling for these conditions.
The authors are grateful to the North York General Foundation for financial support through the Exploration Fund. Dr. Greiver holds an investigator award from the Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto and was supported by a research stipend from North York General Hospital.
2018-03-09T00:00:00ZGriever, MichelleSullivan, FrankKalia, SumeetAliarzadeh, BabakSharma, DeepakBernard, StevenMeaney, ChristopherMoineddin, RahimEisen, DavidRahman, NavidD'Urzo, TonyPatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure (HF) are frequently cared for in hospital and in primary care settings. We studied labeling agreement for COPD and HF for patients seen in both settings in Toronto, Canada. This was a retrospective observational study using linked hospital-primary care electronic data from 70 family physicians. Patients were 20 years of age or more and had at least one visit in both settings between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014. We recorded labeling concordance and associations with clinical factors. We used capture-recapture models to estimate the size of the populations. COPD concordance was 34%; the odds ratios (ORs) of concordance increased with aging (OR 1.84 for age 75+ vs. <65, 95% CI 0.92–3.69) and more inpatient admissions (OR 2.89 for 3+ visits vs. 0 visits, 95% CI 1.59–5.26). HF concordance was 33%; the ORs of concordance decreased with aging (OR 0.39 for 75+ vs. <65, 95% CI 0.18–0.86) and increased with more admissions (OR = 2.39; 95% CI 1.33–4.30 for 3+ visits vs. 0 visits). Based on capture-recapture models, 21–24% additional patients with COPD and18–20% additional patients with HF did not have a label in either setting. The primary care prevalence was estimated as 748 COPD patients and 834 HF patients per 100,000 enrolled adult patients. Agreement levels for COPD and HF were low and labeling was incomplete. Further research is needed to improve labeling for these conditions.The clustering of the SDSS-IV extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey DR14 quasar sample : measurement of the growth rate of structure from the anisotropic correlation function between redshift 0.8 and 2.2Zarrouk, PaulineBurtin, EtienneGil-Marín, HéctorRoss, Ashley J.Tojeiro, RitaParîs, IsabelleDawson, Kyle S.Myers, Adam D.Percival, Will J.Chuang, Chia-HsunZhao, Gong-BoBautista, JulianComparat, JohanGonzález-Pérez, VioletaHabib, SalmanHeitmann, KatrinHou, JiaminLaurent, PierreLe Goff, Jean-MarcPrada, FranciscoRodríguez-Torres, Sergio A.Rossi, GrazianoRuggeri, RossanaSánchez, Ariel G.Schneider, Donald P.Tinker, Jeremy L.Wang, YutingYèche, ChristopheBaumgarten, FalkBrownstein, Joel R.de la Torre, Sylvaindu Mas des Bourboux, HélionKneib, Jean-PaulMariappan, VivekPalanque-Delabrouille, NathaliePeacock, JohnPetitjean, PatrickSeo, Hee-JongZhao, Chenghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129102018-03-13T00:16:21Z2018-02-24T00:00:00ZWe present the clustering measurements of quasars in configuration space based on the Data Release 14 (DR14) of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey. This dataset includes 148,659 quasars spread over the redshift range 0.8 ≤ z ≤ 2.2 and spanning 2112.9 square degrees. We use the Convolution Lagrangian Perturbation Theory (CLPT) approach with a Gaussian Streaming (GS) model for the redshift space distortions of the correlation function and demonstrate its applicability for dark matter halos hosting eBOSS quasartracers. At the effective redshift zeff = 1.52, we measure the linear growth rate of structure fσ8(zeff)= 0.426 ± 0.077, the expansion rate H(zeff) = 159^{+12}_{-13} (r_s^fid/rs)km.s-1.Mpc-1, and the angular diameterdistance DA(zeff)=1850^{+90}_{-115} (rs/r_s^fid) Mpc, where rs is the sound horizon at the end of the baryon drag epoch and r_s^fid is its value in the fiducial cosmology. The quoted errors include both systematic and statistical contributions. The results on the evolution of distances are consistent with the predictions of flat Λ-Cold Dark Matter (Λ-CDM) cosmology with Planck parameters, and the measurement of fσ8 extends the validity of General Relativity (GR) to higher redshifts (z > 1). This paper is released with companion papers using the same sample. The results on the cosmological parameters of the studies are found to be in very good agreement, providing clear evidence of the complementarity and of the robustness of the first full-shape clustering measurements with the eBOSS DR14 quasar sample.
2018-02-24T00:00:00ZZarrouk, PaulineBurtin, EtienneGil-Marín, HéctorRoss, Ashley J.Tojeiro, RitaParîs, IsabelleDawson, Kyle S.Myers, Adam D.Percival, Will J.Chuang, Chia-HsunZhao, Gong-BoBautista, JulianComparat, JohanGonzález-Pérez, VioletaHabib, SalmanHeitmann, KatrinHou, JiaminLaurent, PierreLe Goff, Jean-MarcPrada, FranciscoRodríguez-Torres, Sergio A.Rossi, GrazianoRuggeri, RossanaSánchez, Ariel G.Schneider, Donald P.Tinker, Jeremy L.Wang, YutingYèche, ChristopheBaumgarten, FalkBrownstein, Joel R.de la Torre, Sylvaindu Mas des Bourboux, HélionKneib, Jean-PaulMariappan, VivekPalanque-Delabrouille, NathaliePeacock, JohnPetitjean, PatrickSeo, Hee-JongZhao, ChengWe present the clustering measurements of quasars in configuration space based on the Data Release 14 (DR14) of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey. This dataset includes 148,659 quasars spread over the redshift range 0.8 ≤ z ≤ 2.2 and spanning 2112.9 square degrees. We use the Convolution Lagrangian Perturbation Theory (CLPT) approach with a Gaussian Streaming (GS) model for the redshift space distortions of the correlation function and demonstrate its applicability for dark matter halos hosting eBOSS quasartracers. At the effective redshift zeff = 1.52, we measure the linear growth rate of structure fσ8(zeff)= 0.426 ± 0.077, the expansion rate H(zeff) = 159^{+12}_{-13} (r_s^fid/rs)km.s-1.Mpc-1, and the angular diameterdistance DA(zeff)=1850^{+90}_{-115} (rs/r_s^fid) Mpc, where rs is the sound horizon at the end of the baryon drag epoch and r_s^fid is its value in the fiducial cosmology. The quoted errors include both systematic and statistical contributions. The results on the evolution of distances are consistent with the predictions of flat Λ-Cold Dark Matter (Λ-CDM) cosmology with Planck parameters, and the measurement of fσ8 extends the validity of General Relativity (GR) to higher redshifts (z > 1). This paper is released with companion papers using the same sample. The results on the cosmological parameters of the studies are found to be in very good agreement, providing clear evidence of the complementarity and of the robustness of the first full-shape clustering measurements with the eBOSS DR14 quasar sample.Oral dosing of rodents using a palatable tabletDhawan, Sandeep SonnyXia, ShuangTait, David ScottBundgaard, ChristofferBowman, EllenBrown, Verity Joyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129092018-03-13T00:16:15Z2018-03-06T00:00:00ZRationale: Delivering orally bioavailable drugs to rodents is an important component to investigating that route of administration in novel treatments for humans. However, the traditional method of oral gavage requires training, is stressful, and can induce oesophageal damage in rodents. Objectives: To demonstrate a novel administrative technique – palatable gelatine tablets – as a stress-free route of oral delivery. Methods: 24 male Lister hooded rats were sacrificed for brain tissue analysis at varying time-points after jelly administration of 30 mg/kg of the wake-promoting drug modafinil. A second group of 22 female rats were tested on locomotor activity after 30 mg/kg modafinil, or after vehicle jellies, with the locomotor data compared to the brain tissue concentrations at the corresponding times. Results: Modafinil was present in the brain tissue at all time-points, reducing in concentration over time. The pattern of brain tissue modafinil concentration is comparable to previously reported results following oral gavage. Modafinil-treated rats were more active than control rats, with greater activity during the later time-periods – similar to that previously reported following intraperitoneal injection of 40 mg/kg modafinil. Conclusions: Palatable jelly tablets are an effective route of administration of thermally-stable orally-bioavailable compounds, eliminating the stress/discomfort and health risk of oral gavage and presenting as an alternative to previously reported palatable routes of administration where high protein and fat levels may adversely affect appetite for food reward, and uptake rate in the gastrointestinal tract.
2018-03-06T00:00:00ZDhawan, Sandeep SonnyXia, ShuangTait, David ScottBundgaard, ChristofferBowman, EllenBrown, Verity JoyRationale: Delivering orally bioavailable drugs to rodents is an important component to investigating that route of administration in novel treatments for humans. However, the traditional method of oral gavage requires training, is stressful, and can induce oesophageal damage in rodents. Objectives: To demonstrate a novel administrative technique – palatable gelatine tablets – as a stress-free route of oral delivery. Methods: 24 male Lister hooded rats were sacrificed for brain tissue analysis at varying time-points after jelly administration of 30 mg/kg of the wake-promoting drug modafinil. A second group of 22 female rats were tested on locomotor activity after 30 mg/kg modafinil, or after vehicle jellies, with the locomotor data compared to the brain tissue concentrations at the corresponding times. Results: Modafinil was present in the brain tissue at all time-points, reducing in concentration over time. The pattern of brain tissue modafinil concentration is comparable to previously reported results following oral gavage. Modafinil-treated rats were more active than control rats, with greater activity during the later time-periods – similar to that previously reported following intraperitoneal injection of 40 mg/kg modafinil. Conclusions: Palatable jelly tablets are an effective route of administration of thermally-stable orally-bioavailable compounds, eliminating the stress/discomfort and health risk of oral gavage and presenting as an alternative to previously reported palatable routes of administration where high protein and fat levels may adversely affect appetite for food reward, and uptake rate in the gastrointestinal tract.The triple division of the Slavic languages : a linguistic finding, a product of politics, or an accident?Kamusella, Tomasz Dominikhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129052018-03-13T00:16:14Z2005-01-01T00:00:00ZThe first and rather simple classificatory schemes of the Slavic languages appeared in the first half of the 19th century. The idea that languages develop from one another caught on when the heuristic diagram in the form of Stammbaum (genetic tree) was employed to portray this hypothesis in the second half of the 19th century. Quite unrealistically, the Stammbaum suggests that languages are discrete and self-contained entities, which rapidly branch out from their “parent languages,” as if they were actual “babies” born on a given day. On the other hand, it is well attested that the relatively “sharp” linguistic boundaries arise only between dialect continua, and even those can be bridged by creole continua. Within the dialect continuum language forms change gradually from village to village. The concept of “a language” requires that a segment of a dialect continuum (invariably connected to a power center, that is, a capital) be made into the basis of a written language, which is standardized by its widespread employment in administration, education and literature, and by the compilation of authoritative dictionaries and grammars as well. With the rise of standard languages, the illusion of discrete languages emerged, and became the normative concept of thinking about languages in general. In Central Europe this paradigm of thinking about the linguistic feed backed with the legitimizing force of ethnic nationalisms, in emulation of the German and Italian models. As a consequence, the specifically Central European model of ethnolinguistic nationalism came into being, characterized by the following equation, language = nation = state. This formula became the normative political standard in Central Europe. In accordance with it, ethnolinguistic nation-states were founded in the region. The linguistic Stammbaum perfectly suited the political needs of these new ethnolinguistic nation-states, because, “in the scientific manner,” it emphasized the “inherent separateness” of their languages and nations, which, in turn, legitimized the existence of the corresponding states as separate polities. Afterward, the self-fulfilling prophecy of this ethnolinguistic norm was actualized by official and social stigmatization of dialects, promotion of standard national languages via the mass media and the educational system, forced and economically-driven mass population movements, and expulsions of the speakers of languages other than the national ones. Inevitably, with the founding of the Central European nation-states the wealth of various classificatory schemes of the Slavic languages was “standardized” in line with the political reality to the still prevailing triple division of the Slavic languages, which apportions these languages between the Eastern, Southern, and Western “branches” of the Slavic “genetic tree.” This classification is presented as “scientific” and based on linguistic findings. But there are just two Slavic dialect continua, Northern and Southern, bisected by the West Germanic and East Romance dialect continua, and the remnant of the Finno-Ugric dialect continuum. Hence, it appears that the division between the Eastern Slavic languages, and the Western ones hinges rather on religious, alphabetic, and political cleavages, that is, extralinguistic ones. The normative force of the political equation language = nation = state that underlies the triple division of the Slavic languages is extremely strong to this day. German and Italian are shared as national languages by several nation-states and minority languages of stateless nations/ethnic groups (Sardinian, Frisian, Sorbian) are recognized in Italy and Germany, though sometimes grudgingly. On the contrary, not a single Slavic language is shared as a national language by nation-states. Thus, the breakup of Yugoslavia entailed the breakup of Serbo-Croatian into Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, and, perhaps, Montenegrin. What is more, Poland withheld recognition to Kashubian as a language until the late 1990s, and still does not agree to recognize Silesian. Similarly, Bulgaria refuses to recognize Pomakian, Belarus Polesian, Ukraine Rusyn, and Croatia Bunjevcian as languages. It is so, because in the Central European paradigm of ethnolinguistic nationalism that would be tantamount to recognizing the speech communities of these languages as separate nations, ergo, their right to establish their own nation-states. The triple classificatory scheme of the Slavic languages, though of such recent and rather unscientific (that is, not purely linguistic) origin, has become a dogma of Slavic studies, accepted worldwide. This shows how intimate are the links between politics and academia; how the political influences research results; and how, by chance and coincidence, a heuristic device (for instance, the Stammbaum) suits some current political needs, and can be proclaimed the “true reflection” of reality, while the political is busy shaping this reality so it becomes identical with what is proclaimed. The reinforcing normative relationship between the model and reality being so strong and politically motivated, outside observers tend to mistake the model for reality. This explains the widespread, popular and unwavering acceptance of the triple classificatory scheme of the Slavic languages outside the Slavophone countries.
2005-01-01T00:00:00ZKamusella, Tomasz DominikThe first and rather simple classificatory schemes of the Slavic languages appeared in the first half of the 19th century. The idea that languages develop from one another caught on when the heuristic diagram in the form of Stammbaum (genetic tree) was employed to portray this hypothesis in the second half of the 19th century. Quite unrealistically, the Stammbaum suggests that languages are discrete and self-contained entities, which rapidly branch out from their “parent languages,” as if they were actual “babies” born on a given day. On the other hand, it is well attested that the relatively “sharp” linguistic boundaries arise only between dialect continua, and even those can be bridged by creole continua. Within the dialect continuum language forms change gradually from village to village. The concept of “a language” requires that a segment of a dialect continuum (invariably connected to a power center, that is, a capital) be made into the basis of a written language, which is standardized by its widespread employment in administration, education and literature, and by the compilation of authoritative dictionaries and grammars as well. With the rise of standard languages, the illusion of discrete languages emerged, and became the normative concept of thinking about languages in general. In Central Europe this paradigm of thinking about the linguistic feed backed with the legitimizing force of ethnic nationalisms, in emulation of the German and Italian models. As a consequence, the specifically Central European model of ethnolinguistic nationalism came into being, characterized by the following equation, language = nation = state. This formula became the normative political standard in Central Europe. In accordance with it, ethnolinguistic nation-states were founded in the region. The linguistic Stammbaum perfectly suited the political needs of these new ethnolinguistic nation-states, because, “in the scientific manner,” it emphasized the “inherent separateness” of their languages and nations, which, in turn, legitimized the existence of the corresponding states as separate polities. Afterward, the self-fulfilling prophecy of this ethnolinguistic norm was actualized by official and social stigmatization of dialects, promotion of standard national languages via the mass media and the educational system, forced and economically-driven mass population movements, and expulsions of the speakers of languages other than the national ones. Inevitably, with the founding of the Central European nation-states the wealth of various classificatory schemes of the Slavic languages was “standardized” in line with the political reality to the still prevailing triple division of the Slavic languages, which apportions these languages between the Eastern, Southern, and Western “branches” of the Slavic “genetic tree.” This classification is presented as “scientific” and based on linguistic findings. But there are just two Slavic dialect continua, Northern and Southern, bisected by the West Germanic and East Romance dialect continua, and the remnant of the Finno-Ugric dialect continuum. Hence, it appears that the division between the Eastern Slavic languages, and the Western ones hinges rather on religious, alphabetic, and political cleavages, that is, extralinguistic ones. The normative force of the political equation language = nation = state that underlies the triple division of the Slavic languages is extremely strong to this day. German and Italian are shared as national languages by several nation-states and minority languages of stateless nations/ethnic groups (Sardinian, Frisian, Sorbian) are recognized in Italy and Germany, though sometimes grudgingly. On the contrary, not a single Slavic language is shared as a national language by nation-states. Thus, the breakup of Yugoslavia entailed the breakup of Serbo-Croatian into Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, and, perhaps, Montenegrin. What is more, Poland withheld recognition to Kashubian as a language until the late 1990s, and still does not agree to recognize Silesian. Similarly, Bulgaria refuses to recognize Pomakian, Belarus Polesian, Ukraine Rusyn, and Croatia Bunjevcian as languages. It is so, because in the Central European paradigm of ethnolinguistic nationalism that would be tantamount to recognizing the speech communities of these languages as separate nations, ergo, their right to establish their own nation-states. The triple classificatory scheme of the Slavic languages, though of such recent and rather unscientific (that is, not purely linguistic) origin, has become a dogma of Slavic studies, accepted worldwide. This shows how intimate are the links between politics and academia; how the political influences research results; and how, by chance and coincidence, a heuristic device (for instance, the Stammbaum) suits some current political needs, and can be proclaimed the “true reflection” of reality, while the political is busy shaping this reality so it becomes identical with what is proclaimed. The reinforcing normative relationship between the model and reality being so strong and politically motivated, outside observers tend to mistake the model for reality. This explains the widespread, popular and unwavering acceptance of the triple classificatory scheme of the Slavic languages outside the Slavophone countries.Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins of teleost fishesGarcia de la Serrana, DanielMacqueen, Daniel J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129042018-03-13T00:16:12Z2018-03-12T00:00:00ZThe insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (IGFBP) family has a broad range of physiological functions and a fascinating evolutionary history. This review focuses on the IGFBPs of teleost fishes, where genome duplication events have diversified gene repertoire, function and physiological regulation - with six core IGFBPs expanded into a family of over twenty genes in some lineages. In addition to briefly summarizing the current state of knowledge on teleost IGFBP evolution, function and expression-level regulation, we highlight gaps in our understanding, and promising areas for future work.
DGS would like to thank the Marine Alliance Science Technology Scotland (MASTS) for their support. MASTS is funded by the Scottish Funding Council (grant reference HR09011) and contributing institutions.
2018-03-12T00:00:00ZGarcia de la Serrana, DanielMacqueen, Daniel J.The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (IGFBP) family has a broad range of physiological functions and a fascinating evolutionary history. This review focuses on the IGFBPs of teleost fishes, where genome duplication events have diversified gene repertoire, function and physiological regulation - with six core IGFBPs expanded into a family of over twenty genes in some lineages. In addition to briefly summarizing the current state of knowledge on teleost IGFBP evolution, function and expression-level regulation, we highlight gaps in our understanding, and promising areas for future work.Photospheric observations of surface and body modes in solar magnetic poresKeys, Peter H.Morton, Richard J.Jess, David B.Verth, GaryGrant, Samuel D.T.Mathioudakis, MihalisMackay, Duncan HendryDoyle, John G.Christian, Damian J.Keenan, Francis P.Erdélyi, Robertushttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/129012018-03-13T00:16:25Z2018-03-05T00:00:00ZOver the past number of years, great strides have been made in identifying the various low-order magnetohydrodynamic wave modes observable in a number of magnetic structures found within the solar atmosphere. However, one aspect of these modes that has remained elusive, until now, is their designation as either surface or body modes. This property has significant implications on how these modes transfer energy from the waveguide to the surrounding plasma. Here, for the first time to our knowledge, we present conclusive, direct evidence of these wave characteristics in numerous pores which were observed to support sausage modes. As well as outlining methods to detect these modes in observations, we make estimates of the energies associated with each mode. We find surface modes more frequently in the data, and also that surface modes appear to carry more energy than those displaying signatures of body modes. We find frequencies in the range of ~2 to 12 mHz with body modes as high as 11 mHz, but we do not find surface modes above 10 mHz. It is expected that the techniques we have applied will help researchers search for surface and body signatures in other modes and in differing structures to those presented here.
2018-03-05T00:00:00ZKeys, Peter H.Morton, Richard J.Jess, David B.Verth, GaryGrant, Samuel D.T.Mathioudakis, MihalisMackay, Duncan HendryDoyle, John G.Christian, Damian J.Keenan, Francis P.Erdélyi, RobertusOver the past number of years, great strides have been made in identifying the various low-order magnetohydrodynamic wave modes observable in a number of magnetic structures found within the solar atmosphere. However, one aspect of these modes that has remained elusive, until now, is their designation as either surface or body modes. This property has significant implications on how these modes transfer energy from the waveguide to the surrounding plasma. Here, for the first time to our knowledge, we present conclusive, direct evidence of these wave characteristics in numerous pores which were observed to support sausage modes. As well as outlining methods to detect these modes in observations, we make estimates of the energies associated with each mode. We find surface modes more frequently in the data, and also that surface modes appear to carry more energy than those displaying signatures of body modes. We find frequencies in the range of ~2 to 12 mHz with body modes as high as 11 mHz, but we do not find surface modes above 10 mHz. It is expected that the techniques we have applied will help researchers search for surface and body signatures in other modes and in differing structures to those presented here.Effects of seawater pCO2 and temperature on calcification and productivity in the coral genus Porites spp. : an exploration of potential interaction mechanismsCole, C.Finch, A. A.Hintz, C.Hintz, K.Allison, N.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/129002018-03-13T00:16:23Z2018-03-10T00:00:00ZUnderstanding how rising seawater pCO2 and temperatures impact coral aragonite accretion is essential for predicting the future of reef ecosystems. Here we report 2 long term (10-11 month) studies assessing the effects of temperature (25 and 28°C) and both high and low seawater pCO2 (180-750 μatm) on the calcification, photosynthesis and respiration of individual massive Porites spp. genotypes. Calcification rates were highly variable between genotypes but high seawater pCO2 reduced calcification significantly in 4 of 7 genotypes cultured at 25°C but in only 1 of 4 genotypes cultured at 28°C. Increasing seawater temperature enhanced calcification in almost all corals but the magnitude of this effect was seawater pCO2 dependent. The 3°C temperature increase enhanced calcification rate on average by 3% at 180 μatm, by 35% at 260 μatm and by >300% at 750 μatm. The rate increase at high seawater pCO2 exceeds that observed in inorganic aragonites. Responses of gross/net photosynthesis and respiration to temperature and seawater pCO2 varied between genotypes but rates of all these processes were reduced at the higher seawater temperature. Increases in seawater temperature, below the thermal stress threshold, may mitigate against ocean acidification in this coral genus but this moderation is not mediated by an increase in net photosynthesis. The response of coral calcification to temperature cannot be explained by symbiont productivity or by thermodynamic and kinetic influences on aragonite formation.
This work was supported by the UK Natural Environment Research Council (Award NE/I022973/1) to AAF and NA.
2018-03-10T00:00:00ZCole, C.Finch, A. A.Hintz, C.Hintz, K.Allison, N.Understanding how rising seawater pCO2 and temperatures impact coral aragonite accretion is essential for predicting the future of reef ecosystems. Here we report 2 long term (10-11 month) studies assessing the effects of temperature (25 and 28°C) and both high and low seawater pCO2 (180-750 μatm) on the calcification, photosynthesis and respiration of individual massive Porites spp. genotypes. Calcification rates were highly variable between genotypes but high seawater pCO2 reduced calcification significantly in 4 of 7 genotypes cultured at 25°C but in only 1 of 4 genotypes cultured at 28°C. Increasing seawater temperature enhanced calcification in almost all corals but the magnitude of this effect was seawater pCO2 dependent. The 3°C temperature increase enhanced calcification rate on average by 3% at 180 μatm, by 35% at 260 μatm and by >300% at 750 μatm. The rate increase at high seawater pCO2 exceeds that observed in inorganic aragonites. Responses of gross/net photosynthesis and respiration to temperature and seawater pCO2 varied between genotypes but rates of all these processes were reduced at the higher seawater temperature. Increases in seawater temperature, below the thermal stress threshold, may mitigate against ocean acidification in this coral genus but this moderation is not mediated by an increase in net photosynthesis. The response of coral calcification to temperature cannot be explained by symbiont productivity or by thermodynamic and kinetic influences on aragonite formation.Comparing methods suitable for monitoring marine mammals in low visibility conditions during seismic surveysVerfuss, Ursula K.Gillespie, DouglasGordon, JonathanMarques, Tiago A.Miller, BriannePlunkett, RachaelTheriault, James A.Tollit, Dominic J.Zitterbart, Daniel P.Hubert, PhilippeThomas, Lenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128982018-03-18T02:30:34Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZLoud sound emitted during offshore industrial activities can impact marine mammals. Regulations typically prescribe marine mammal monitoring before and/or during these activities to implement mitigation measures that minimise potential acoustic impacts. Using seismic surveys under low visibility conditions as a case study, we review which monitoring methods are suitable and compare their relative strengths and weaknesses. Passive acoustic monitoring has been implemented as either a complementary or alternative method to visual monitoring in low visibility conditions. Other methods such as RADAR, active sonar and thermal infrared have also been tested, but are rarely recommended by regulatory bodies. The efficiency of the monitoring method(s) will depend on the animal behaviour and environmental conditions, however, using a combination of complementary systems generally improves the overall detection performance. We recommend that the performance of monitoring systems, over a range of conditions, is explored in a modelling framework for a variety of species.
Funding: This work was supported by the Joint Industry Programme on E&P Sound and Marine Life - Phase III. TAM was partially supported by CEAUL (funded by FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Portugal, through the project UID/MAT/00006/2013).
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZVerfuss, Ursula K.Gillespie, DouglasGordon, JonathanMarques, Tiago A.Miller, BriannePlunkett, RachaelTheriault, James A.Tollit, Dominic J.Zitterbart, Daniel P.Hubert, PhilippeThomas, LenLoud sound emitted during offshore industrial activities can impact marine mammals. Regulations typically prescribe marine mammal monitoring before and/or during these activities to implement mitigation measures that minimise potential acoustic impacts. Using seismic surveys under low visibility conditions as a case study, we review which monitoring methods are suitable and compare their relative strengths and weaknesses. Passive acoustic monitoring has been implemented as either a complementary or alternative method to visual monitoring in low visibility conditions. Other methods such as RADAR, active sonar and thermal infrared have also been tested, but are rarely recommended by regulatory bodies. The efficiency of the monitoring method(s) will depend on the animal behaviour and environmental conditions, however, using a combination of complementary systems generally improves the overall detection performance. We recommend that the performance of monitoring systems, over a range of conditions, is explored in a modelling framework for a variety of species.Understanding the relationship between suicidality, current depressed mood, personality, and cognitive factorsCameron, ShriBrown, Verity J.Dritschel, BarbaraPower, KevinCook, Malcolmhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128972018-03-13T00:15:38Z2017-12-01T00:00:00ZObjectives: Links between suicidality and depressed mood are well established. There is, however, little information about the emotional regulation processes that underlie the relationship between suicidality and current low mood, and how these processes differ between groups of never-suicidal (NS), suicidal ideators, and suicide attempters. As suicidality and depression are heterogeneous constructs, this study aimed to conduct within- and between-group comparisons of known suicide risk factors that are associated with emotion regulation (neuroticism, trait aggression, brooding, impulsivity, and overgeneral autobiographical memories). Design: Correlational design using between- and within-group comparisons from self-report measures. Methods: Inter- and intragroup differences were identified using Pearson's correlation coefficients and tests of difference. An analysis of indirect effects was used to investigate whether the relationship between suicidality and current low mood was mediated by neuroticism, trait aggression, brooding, impulsivity, and overgeneral autobiographical memories, and if this relationship varied according to group type. Results: Brooding appeared to be a consistent feature of all three groups and was closely related to current low mood. Compared to the NS group, the relationship between suicide attempts and current low mood showed greater associations with brooding, trait aggression, and overgeneral autobiographical memories. Compared to the NS group, the suicidal ideation group showed stronger associations with neuroticism and impulsivity, but these factors did not correlate with low mood. Conclusion: These results suggest a need for larger studies to focus on heterogeneity within suicidal populations and consider how different combinations of risk factors may heighten or reduce suicide risk. Practitioner points: * It is well known that the severity and intensity of suicide and depressed presentations vary because of underlying dispositional and contextual factors (Fried & Nesse, ) which, in turn, affect how events are interpreted and responded to. Despite this, there is little research about how these mechanisms operate in different types of suicide groups, and their influence on the relationship between suicidality and current low mood. * Understanding interrelationships that affect current low mood is of clinical significance because past suicidal history and deteriorations in already negative mood are linked to repeated suicide attempts and completion. * Our findings show that ruminative brooding, defined as a tendency to repeatedly think about emotional aspects of an event, consistently correlates with current low mood across different types of suicidal groups (NS, suicidal ideators, and suicide attempters), and across analyses. * Findings also show that suicidal ideation and attempt groups were associated with specific personality characteristics that increased the propensity of emotional responding and interpretation compared to the NS group. The relationship between suicide attempt and current low mood had a higher propensity to be influenced by trait aggression, brooding, and overgenerality compared to the NS group. In contrast, although the suicidal ideation group correlated more strongly with neuroticism and impulsivity, these factors did not influence current low mood. * In terms of clinical practice, these findings imply that specific styles of interpretation and thinking may maintain the relationship between suicidality and current low mood. Given the cross-sectional nature of the study, however, it is not possible to imply causality. Nevertheless, the findings obtained provide some support for transdiagnostic models of cognitive-behavioural processes that could be developed further.
2017-12-01T00:00:00ZCameron, ShriBrown, Verity J.Dritschel, BarbaraPower, KevinCook, MalcolmObjectives: Links between suicidality and depressed mood are well established. There is, however, little information about the emotional regulation processes that underlie the relationship between suicidality and current low mood, and how these processes differ between groups of never-suicidal (NS), suicidal ideators, and suicide attempters. As suicidality and depression are heterogeneous constructs, this study aimed to conduct within- and between-group comparisons of known suicide risk factors that are associated with emotion regulation (neuroticism, trait aggression, brooding, impulsivity, and overgeneral autobiographical memories). Design: Correlational design using between- and within-group comparisons from self-report measures. Methods: Inter- and intragroup differences were identified using Pearson's correlation coefficients and tests of difference. An analysis of indirect effects was used to investigate whether the relationship between suicidality and current low mood was mediated by neuroticism, trait aggression, brooding, impulsivity, and overgeneral autobiographical memories, and if this relationship varied according to group type. Results: Brooding appeared to be a consistent feature of all three groups and was closely related to current low mood. Compared to the NS group, the relationship between suicide attempts and current low mood showed greater associations with brooding, trait aggression, and overgeneral autobiographical memories. Compared to the NS group, the suicidal ideation group showed stronger associations with neuroticism and impulsivity, but these factors did not correlate with low mood. Conclusion: These results suggest a need for larger studies to focus on heterogeneity within suicidal populations and consider how different combinations of risk factors may heighten or reduce suicide risk. Practitioner points: * It is well known that the severity and intensity of suicide and depressed presentations vary because of underlying dispositional and contextual factors (Fried & Nesse, ) which, in turn, affect how events are interpreted and responded to. Despite this, there is little research about how these mechanisms operate in different types of suicide groups, and their influence on the relationship between suicidality and current low mood. * Understanding interrelationships that affect current low mood is of clinical significance because past suicidal history and deteriorations in already negative mood are linked to repeated suicide attempts and completion. * Our findings show that ruminative brooding, defined as a tendency to repeatedly think about emotional aspects of an event, consistently correlates with current low mood across different types of suicidal groups (NS, suicidal ideators, and suicide attempters), and across analyses. * Findings also show that suicidal ideation and attempt groups were associated with specific personality characteristics that increased the propensity of emotional responding and interpretation compared to the NS group. The relationship between suicide attempt and current low mood had a higher propensity to be influenced by trait aggression, brooding, and overgenerality compared to the NS group. In contrast, although the suicidal ideation group correlated more strongly with neuroticism and impulsivity, these factors did not influence current low mood. * In terms of clinical practice, these findings imply that specific styles of interpretation and thinking may maintain the relationship between suicidality and current low mood. Given the cross-sectional nature of the study, however, it is not possible to imply causality. Nevertheless, the findings obtained provide some support for transdiagnostic models of cognitive-behavioural processes that could be developed further.Information-sharing with respite care services for older adults : a qualitative exploration of carers’ experiencesMcSwiggan, Linda C.Marston, JudithCampbell, MartinKelly, Timothy B.Kroll, Thilohttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128962018-03-12T00:15:36Z2017-07-01T00:00:00ZRespite services play an important role in supporting older adults and their carers. When an older person is unable to fully represent themselves, provision of respite care relies on effective information-sharing between carers and respite staff. This study aimed to explore, from carers’ perspectives, the scope, quality and fit of information-sharing between carers, older people and respite services. An explorative, cross-sectional qualitative study involving a purposive sample of 24 carers, recruited via carer support groups and community groups in voluntary organisations, was undertaken in North East Scotland. Data were collected from August 2013 to September 2014, with participants taking part in a focus group or individual interview. Data were analysed systematically using the Framework Approach. The multiple accounts elicited from carers identified how barriers and facilitators to information-sharing with respite services changed over time across three temporal phases: ‘Reaching a point’, ‘Trying it out’ and ‘Settled in’. Proactive information-sharing about accessibility and eligibility for respite care, and assessment of carers’ needs in their own right, were initially important; as carers and older people moved on to try services out, time and space to develop mutual understandings and negotiate care arrangements came to the fore; then, once shared expectations had been established, carers’ chief concerns were around continuity of care and maintaining good interpersonal relationships. The three temporal phases also impacted on which modes of information-sharing were available to, and worked best for, carers as well as on carers’ perceptions of how information and communication technologies should be utilised. This study highlights the need for respite staff to take proactive, flexible approaches to working with carers and to make ongoing efforts to engage with carers, and older people, throughout the months and years of them utilising respite services. Information and communication technologies have potential to enhance information-sharing but traditional approaches will remain important.
This study was financially supported by the Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS Project ELCRI01), Edinburgh, Scotland.
2017-07-01T00:00:00ZMcSwiggan, Linda C.Marston, JudithCampbell, MartinKelly, Timothy B.Kroll, ThiloRespite services play an important role in supporting older adults and their carers. When an older person is unable to fully represent themselves, provision of respite care relies on effective information-sharing between carers and respite staff. This study aimed to explore, from carers’ perspectives, the scope, quality and fit of information-sharing between carers, older people and respite services. An explorative, cross-sectional qualitative study involving a purposive sample of 24 carers, recruited via carer support groups and community groups in voluntary organisations, was undertaken in North East Scotland. Data were collected from August 2013 to September 2014, with participants taking part in a focus group or individual interview. Data were analysed systematically using the Framework Approach. The multiple accounts elicited from carers identified how barriers and facilitators to information-sharing with respite services changed over time across three temporal phases: ‘Reaching a point’, ‘Trying it out’ and ‘Settled in’. Proactive information-sharing about accessibility and eligibility for respite care, and assessment of carers’ needs in their own right, were initially important; as carers and older people moved on to try services out, time and space to develop mutual understandings and negotiate care arrangements came to the fore; then, once shared expectations had been established, carers’ chief concerns were around continuity of care and maintaining good interpersonal relationships. The three temporal phases also impacted on which modes of information-sharing were available to, and worked best for, carers as well as on carers’ perceptions of how information and communication technologies should be utilised. This study highlights the need for respite staff to take proactive, flexible approaches to working with carers and to make ongoing efforts to engage with carers, and older people, throughout the months and years of them utilising respite services. Information and communication technologies have potential to enhance information-sharing but traditional approaches will remain important.Soldiers, Villagers, and Politics: Military Violence and the Jacquerie of 1358Firnhaber-Baker, Justine Mariehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128952018-03-11T00:15:45Z2016-03-09T00:00:00ZThis work was undertaken with the support of a British Arts and Humanities Research Council Early Career Fellowship (grant reference AH/K006843/1).
2016-03-09T00:00:00ZFirnhaber-Baker, Justine MarieDominique Vivant Denon: Point de lendemain [No Tomorrow], 1777Ganofsky, Marinehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128942018-03-11T00:33:07Z2017-03-09T00:00:00Z2017-03-09T00:00:00ZGanofsky, MarineClaude Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon: Les égarements du cœur et de l’esprit [The Wayward Heart and Head], 1736-1738Ganofsky, Marinehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128932018-03-11T00:33:06Z2017-03-09T00:00:00Z2017-03-09T00:00:00ZGanofsky, MarineTimes of the self in Kingston, JamaicaWardle, Huonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128922018-03-11T00:15:39Z2017-05-27T00:00:00ZRevival Zionists – a small spiritist following in Jamaica – describe how their relations with spirits allow them to bring personal spiritual gifts to bear on every day or ‘temporal’ experience. Taking a hint from Kant that ‘time itself does not change but only something which is in time’, the article considers the timely logic of these ‘gifts’. In a social-economic situation characterised by paucity of material resources but plenitude of labour-time, spiritual gifts reappear as a valued ground for a person's reputation. Likewise, we may also see them as one example of an attempt to organise the relationship between homo noumenon and homo temporalis.
2017-05-27T00:00:00ZWardle, HuonRevival Zionists – a small spiritist following in Jamaica – describe how their relations with spirits allow them to bring personal spiritual gifts to bear on every day or ‘temporal’ experience. Taking a hint from Kant that ‘time itself does not change but only something which is in time’, the article considers the timely logic of these ‘gifts’. In a social-economic situation characterised by paucity of material resources but plenitude of labour-time, spiritual gifts reappear as a valued ground for a person's reputation. Likewise, we may also see them as one example of an attempt to organise the relationship between homo noumenon and homo temporalis.The JCMT Transient Survey : stochastic and secular variability of protostars and disks in the submillimeter region observed over 18 monthsJohnstone, DougHerczeg, Gregory J.Mairs, SteveHatchell, JenniferBower, Geoffrey C.Kirk, HelenLane, JamesBell, Graham S.Graves, SarahAikawa, YuriChen, Huei-Ru VivienChen, Wen-PingKang, MijuKang, Sung-JuLee, Jeong-EunMorata, OscarPon, AndyScicluna, PeterScholz, AleksTakahashi, SatokoYoo, Hyunjuhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128902018-03-13T16:30:07Z2018-02-08T00:00:00ZWe analyze results from the first 18 months of monthly submillimeter monitoring of eight star-forming regions in the JCMT Transient Survey. In our search for stochastic variability in 1643 bright peaks, only the previously identified source, EC 53, shows behavior well above the expected measurement uncertainty. Another four sources—two disks and two protostars—show moderately enhanced standard deviations in brightness, as expected for stochastic variables. For the two protostars, this apparent variability is the result of single epochs that are much brighter than the mean. In our search for secular brightness variations that are linear in time, we measure the fractional brightness change per year for 150 bright peaks, 50 of which are protostellar. The ensemble distribution of slopes is well fit by a normal distribution with σ ~ 0.023. Most sources are not rapidly brightening or fading at submillimeter wavelengths. Comparison against time-randomized realizations shows that the width of the distribution is dominated by the uncertainty in the individual brightness measurements of the sources. A toy model for secular variability reveals that an underlying Gaussian distribution of linear fractional brightness change σ = 0.005 would be unobservable in the present sample, whereas an underlying distribution with σ = 0.02 is ruled out. Five protostellar sources, 10% of the protostellar sample, are found to have robust secular measures deviating from a constant flux. The sensitivity to secular brightness variations will improve significantly with a sample over a longer time duration, with an improvement by factor of two expected by the conclusion of our 36 month survey.
2018-02-08T00:00:00ZJohnstone, DougHerczeg, Gregory J.Mairs, SteveHatchell, JenniferBower, Geoffrey C.Kirk, HelenLane, JamesBell, Graham S.Graves, SarahAikawa, YuriChen, Huei-Ru VivienChen, Wen-PingKang, MijuKang, Sung-JuLee, Jeong-EunMorata, OscarPon, AndyScicluna, PeterScholz, AleksTakahashi, SatokoYoo, HyunjuWe analyze results from the first 18 months of monthly submillimeter monitoring of eight star-forming regions in the JCMT Transient Survey. In our search for stochastic variability in 1643 bright peaks, only the previously identified source, EC 53, shows behavior well above the expected measurement uncertainty. Another four sources—two disks and two protostars—show moderately enhanced standard deviations in brightness, as expected for stochastic variables. For the two protostars, this apparent variability is the result of single epochs that are much brighter than the mean. In our search for secular brightness variations that are linear in time, we measure the fractional brightness change per year for 150 bright peaks, 50 of which are protostellar. The ensemble distribution of slopes is well fit by a normal distribution with σ ~ 0.023. Most sources are not rapidly brightening or fading at submillimeter wavelengths. Comparison against time-randomized realizations shows that the width of the distribution is dominated by the uncertainty in the individual brightness measurements of the sources. A toy model for secular variability reveals that an underlying Gaussian distribution of linear fractional brightness change σ = 0.005 would be unobservable in the present sample, whereas an underlying distribution with σ = 0.02 is ruled out. Five protostellar sources, 10% of the protostellar sample, are found to have robust secular measures deviating from a constant flux. The sensitivity to secular brightness variations will improve significantly with a sample over a longer time duration, with an improvement by factor of two expected by the conclusion of our 36 month survey.Discovery of a magnetic white dwarf with unusual short-period variabilityScholz, AleksLlama, JoeMuzic, KoraljkaFaller, SarahFroebrich, DirkStelzer, Beatehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128892018-03-13T16:30:07Z2018-02-12T00:00:00ZWe report the discovery of a magnetic white dwarf which shows periodicvariability with P=110 min, color-dependent amplitudes and a transientphase shift in the blue compared to the red lightcurve - a previouslyunknown type of variability for this type of object. We attribute thevariations either to a close ultracool (thus far undetected) companionor, more likely, to magnetic spots with unusual temperature structure.
2018-02-12T00:00:00ZScholz, AleksLlama, JoeMuzic, KoraljkaFaller, SarahFroebrich, DirkStelzer, BeateWe report the discovery of a magnetic white dwarf which shows periodicvariability with P=110 min, color-dependent amplitudes and a transientphase shift in the blue compared to the red lightcurve - a previouslyunknown type of variability for this type of object. We attribute thevariations either to a close ultracool (thus far undetected) companionor, more likely, to magnetic spots with unusual temperature structure.Social science as a guide to social metaphysics?Hawley, Katherine Janehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128882018-03-10T00:15:36Z2018-02-05T00:00:00ZIf we are sympathetic to the project of naturalising metaphysics, how should we approach the metaphysics of the social world? What role can the social sciences play in metaphysical investigation? In the light of these questions, this paper examines three possible approaches to social metaphysics: inference to the best explanation from current social science, conceptual analysis, and Haslanger-inspired ameliorative projects.
Work on this paper was supported by a Major Research Fellowship from the Leverhulme Trust.
2018-02-05T00:00:00ZHawley, Katherine JaneIf we are sympathetic to the project of naturalising metaphysics, how should we approach the metaphysics of the social world? What role can the social sciences play in metaphysical investigation? In the light of these questions, this paper examines three possible approaches to social metaphysics: inference to the best explanation from current social science, conceptual analysis, and Haslanger-inspired ameliorative projects.Humanizing sociotechnical transitions through energy justice : an ethical framework for global transformative changeJenkins, KirstenSovacool, BenjaminMcCauley, Darrenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128872018-03-12T10:30:14Z2018-06-01T00:00:00ZPoverty, climate change and energy security demand awareness about the interlinkages between energy systems and social justice. Amidst these challenges, energy justice has emerged to conceptualize a world where all individuals, across all areas, have safe, affordable and sustainable energy that is, essentially, socially just. Simultaneously, new social and technological solutions to energy problems continually evolve, and interest in the concept of sociotechnical transitions has grown. However, an element often missing from such transitions frameworks is explicit engagement with energy justice frameworks. Despite the development of an embryonic set of literature around these themes, an obvious research gap has emerged: can energy justice and transitions frameworks be combined? This paper argues that they can. It does so through an exploration of the multi-level perspective on sociotechnical systems and an integration of energy justice at the model's niche, regime and landscape level. It presents the argument that it is within the overarching process of sociotechnical change that issues of energy justice emerge. Here, inattention to social justice issues can cause injustices, whereas attention to them can provide a means to examine and potential resolve them.
The authors are appreciative to the Research Councils United Kingdom (RCUK) Energy Program Grant EP/K011790/1 “Centre on Innovation and Energy Demand,” which has supported elements of the work reported here, as well as research grants from the ESRC (ES/I001425/1) and EPSRC (EP/I035390/1). The third author would like to thank the ESRC and EPSRC for funding this research agenda.
2018-06-01T00:00:00ZJenkins, KirstenSovacool, BenjaminMcCauley, DarrenPoverty, climate change and energy security demand awareness about the interlinkages between energy systems and social justice. Amidst these challenges, energy justice has emerged to conceptualize a world where all individuals, across all areas, have safe, affordable and sustainable energy that is, essentially, socially just. Simultaneously, new social and technological solutions to energy problems continually evolve, and interest in the concept of sociotechnical transitions has grown. However, an element often missing from such transitions frameworks is explicit engagement with energy justice frameworks. Despite the development of an embryonic set of literature around these themes, an obvious research gap has emerged: can energy justice and transitions frameworks be combined? This paper argues that they can. It does so through an exploration of the multi-level perspective on sociotechnical systems and an integration of energy justice at the model's niche, regime and landscape level. It presents the argument that it is within the overarching process of sociotechnical change that issues of energy justice emerge. Here, inattention to social justice issues can cause injustices, whereas attention to them can provide a means to examine and potential resolve them.Ultrafast elemental and oxidation-state mapping of haematite by 4D electron microscopySu, ZixueBaskin, J. SpencerZhou, WuzongThomas, JohnZewail, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128862018-03-11T01:36:51Z2017-03-08T00:00:00ZWe describe a new methodology that sheds light on the fundamental electronic processes that occur at the sub-surface regions of inorganic solid photocatalysts. Three distinct kinds of microscopic imaging are used that yield spatial, temporal and energy-resolved information. We also carefully consider the effect of photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM), first reported by Zewail et al. in 2009. The value of this methodology is illustrated by studying afresh a popular and viable photocatalyst, haematite, α-Fe2O3, that exhibits most of the properties required in a practical application. By employing high-energy electron-loss signals (of several hundred eV), coupled to femtosecond temporal resolution as well as ultrafast energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy in 4D, we have, inter alia, identified Fe4+ ions that have a lifetime of a few picoseconds, as well as associated photoinduced electronic transitions and charge transfer processes.
This work was supported by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (FA9550-11-1-0055) in the Gordon and Betty Moore Center for Physical Biology at the California Institute of Technology.
2017-03-08T00:00:00ZSu, ZixueBaskin, J. SpencerZhou, WuzongThomas, JohnZewail, AhmedWe describe a new methodology that sheds light on the fundamental electronic processes that occur at the sub-surface regions of inorganic solid photocatalysts. Three distinct kinds of microscopic imaging are used that yield spatial, temporal and energy-resolved information. We also carefully consider the effect of photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM), first reported by Zewail et al. in 2009. The value of this methodology is illustrated by studying afresh a popular and viable photocatalyst, haematite, α-Fe2O3, that exhibits most of the properties required in a practical application. By employing high-energy electron-loss signals (of several hundred eV), coupled to femtosecond temporal resolution as well as ultrafast energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy in 4D, we have, inter alia, identified Fe4+ ions that have a lifetime of a few picoseconds, as well as associated photoinduced electronic transitions and charge transfer processes.Last millennium Northern Hemisphere summer temperatures from tree rings : part II, spatially resolved reconstructionsAnchukaitis, Kevin J.Wilson, RobBriffa, Keith R.Büntgen, UlfCook, Edward R.D'Arrigo, RosanneDavi, NicoleEsper, JanFrank, DavidGunnarson, Björn E.Hegerl, GabiHelama, SamuliKlesse, StefanKrusic, Paul J.Linderholm, Hans W.Myglan, VladimirOsborn, Timothy J.Zhang, PengRydval, MilošSchneider, LeaSchurer, AndrewWiles, GregZorita, Eduardohttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128852018-03-10T00:16:03Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZClimate field reconstructions from networks of tree-ring proxy data can be used to characterize regional-scale climate changes, reveal spatial anomaly patterns associated with atmospheric circulation changes, radiative forcing, and large-scale modes of ocean-atmosphere variability, and provide spatiotemporal targets for climate model comparison and evaluation. Here we use a multiproxy network of tree-ring chronologies to reconstruct spatially resolved warm season (May–August) mean temperatures across the extratropical Northern Hemisphere (40-90°N) using Point-by-Point Regression (PPR). The resulting annual maps of temperature anomalies (750–1988 CE) reveal a consistent imprint of volcanism, with 96% of reconstructed grid points experiencing colder conditions following eruptions. Solar influences are detected at the bicentennial (de Vries) frequency, although at other time scales the influence of insolation variability is weak. Approximately 90% of reconstructed grid points show warmer temperatures during the Medieval Climate Anomaly when compared to the Little Ice Age, although the magnitude varies spatially across the hemisphere. Estimates of field reconstruction skill through time and over space can guide future temporal extension and spatial expansion of the proxy network.
RW: UK Natural Environment Research Council (NERC - NE/K003097/1) and Leverhulme Trust project (F/00 268/BG)
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZAnchukaitis, Kevin J.Wilson, RobBriffa, Keith R.Büntgen, UlfCook, Edward R.D'Arrigo, RosanneDavi, NicoleEsper, JanFrank, DavidGunnarson, Björn E.Hegerl, GabiHelama, SamuliKlesse, StefanKrusic, Paul J.Linderholm, Hans W.Myglan, VladimirOsborn, Timothy J.Zhang, PengRydval, MilošSchneider, LeaSchurer, AndrewWiles, GregZorita, EduardoClimate field reconstructions from networks of tree-ring proxy data can be used to characterize regional-scale climate changes, reveal spatial anomaly patterns associated with atmospheric circulation changes, radiative forcing, and large-scale modes of ocean-atmosphere variability, and provide spatiotemporal targets for climate model comparison and evaluation. Here we use a multiproxy network of tree-ring chronologies to reconstruct spatially resolved warm season (May–August) mean temperatures across the extratropical Northern Hemisphere (40-90°N) using Point-by-Point Regression (PPR). The resulting annual maps of temperature anomalies (750–1988 CE) reveal a consistent imprint of volcanism, with 96% of reconstructed grid points experiencing colder conditions following eruptions. Solar influences are detected at the bicentennial (de Vries) frequency, although at other time scales the influence of insolation variability is weak. Approximately 90% of reconstructed grid points show warmer temperatures during the Medieval Climate Anomaly when compared to the Little Ice Age, although the magnitude varies spatially across the hemisphere. Estimates of field reconstruction skill through time and over space can guide future temporal extension and spatial expansion of the proxy network.The role of interdisciplinary collaboration for stated preference methods to value marine environmental goods and ecosystem servicesBörger, TobiasBöhnke-Henrichs, AnneHattam, CarolinePiwowarczyk, JoannaSchasfoort, FemkeAusten, Melanie C.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128842018-03-10T00:16:05Z2018-02-05T00:00:00ZWith the increasing use of environmental valuation methods in coastal, marine and deep-sea settings, there is a growing need for the collaboration of natural scientists and environmental economists. Stated preference valuation methods in particular need to be based on sound natural science information and translate such information to be used in social surveys. This paper uses three applications to make explicit the flow of information between different disciplines in the preparation and implementation of stated preference studies. One approach for facilitating this flow is to increase knowledge and understanding of natural scientists on these methods. To address this, this paper highlights key opportunities and pitfalls and demonstrates those in the context of three case studies. It therefore provides guidance on stated preference valuation for natural scientists rather than for economists.
This study was funded by the European Community's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007–2013) within the Ocean of Tomorrow call under Grant Agreement No.266445 for the project Vectors of Change in Oceans and Seas Marine Life, Impact on Economic Sectors (VECTORS).
2018-02-05T00:00:00ZBörger, TobiasBöhnke-Henrichs, AnneHattam, CarolinePiwowarczyk, JoannaSchasfoort, FemkeAusten, Melanie C.With the increasing use of environmental valuation methods in coastal, marine and deep-sea settings, there is a growing need for the collaboration of natural scientists and environmental economists. Stated preference valuation methods in particular need to be based on sound natural science information and translate such information to be used in social surveys. This paper uses three applications to make explicit the flow of information between different disciplines in the preparation and implementation of stated preference studies. One approach for facilitating this flow is to increase knowledge and understanding of natural scientists on these methods. To address this, this paper highlights key opportunities and pitfalls and demonstrates those in the context of three case studies. It therefore provides guidance on stated preference valuation for natural scientists rather than for economists.Living in stable social groups is associated with reduced brain size in woodpeckers (Picidae)Fedorova, NataliaEvans, Cara L.Byrne, Richard W.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128832018-03-10T00:16:01Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZGroup size predicts brain size in primates and some other mammal groups, but no such relationship has been found in birds. Instead, stable pair-bonding and bi-parental care have been identified as correlates of larger brains in birds. We investigated the relationship between brain size and social system within the family Picidae, using phylogenetically controlled regression analysis. We found no specific effect of duration or strength of pair bonds, but brain sizes were systematically smaller in species living in long-lasting social groups of larger sizes. Group living may only present a cognitive challenge in groups in which members have individually competitive relationships; we therefore propose that groups functioning for cooperative benefit may allow disinvestment in expensive brain tissue.
NF was supported by University of St Andrews undergraduate research assistantship program, and CLE was supported by a BBSRC studentship.
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZFedorova, NataliaEvans, Cara L.Byrne, Richard W.Group size predicts brain size in primates and some other mammal groups, but no such relationship has been found in birds. Instead, stable pair-bonding and bi-parental care have been identified as correlates of larger brains in birds. We investigated the relationship between brain size and social system within the family Picidae, using phylogenetically controlled regression analysis. We found no specific effect of duration or strength of pair bonds, but brain sizes were systematically smaller in species living in long-lasting social groups of larger sizes. Group living may only present a cognitive challenge in groups in which members have individually competitive relationships; we therefore propose that groups functioning for cooperative benefit may allow disinvestment in expensive brain tissue.Malfunctioning music and the art of noise : the prepared pianos of Jules LaforgueEvans, Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128822018-03-10T00:16:00Z2016-03-08T00:00:00ZWhile Laforgue criticism has explored the prominent role which music plays in his work, studies have focused on Les Complaintes and Derniers vers rather than his abandoned volume Le Sanglot de la Terre. This article suggests that Laforgue's later poetics of discord and dissonance already takes shape here: thematically, by subverting images of mechanical music such as the barrel organ, and formally, in the various dislocations which the poet inflicts on his verse. This malfunctioning music is read alongside wide-ranging evidence, in Laforgue's prose, notes and correspondence, of a notion of sound collage which demonstrates striking similarities with avant-garde musical experiments in the twentieth century by Russolo, Schaeffer or Cage, such as noise music and musique concrète. This aesthetics of explosion, decomposition and juxtaposition allows Laforgue to abandon previously secure hierarchies of beauty in favour of a modern, mobile idealism in which poetic value is unstable, dynamic and in constant process.
2016-03-08T00:00:00ZEvans, DavidWhile Laforgue criticism has explored the prominent role which music plays in his work, studies have focused on Les Complaintes and Derniers vers rather than his abandoned volume Le Sanglot de la Terre. This article suggests that Laforgue's later poetics of discord and dissonance already takes shape here: thematically, by subverting images of mechanical music such as the barrel organ, and formally, in the various dislocations which the poet inflicts on his verse. This malfunctioning music is read alongside wide-ranging evidence, in Laforgue's prose, notes and correspondence, of a notion of sound collage which demonstrates striking similarities with avant-garde musical experiments in the twentieth century by Russolo, Schaeffer or Cage, such as noise music and musique concrète. This aesthetics of explosion, decomposition and juxtaposition allows Laforgue to abandon previously secure hierarchies of beauty in favour of a modern, mobile idealism in which poetic value is unstable, dynamic and in constant process.Ageing with a captive society in London: Audrey, Ron and Smokey at the ZooReed, Adamhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128812018-03-10T00:16:00Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZThis paper considers the spatio-temporal capacity of a set of relationships as they are identified by a group of older people who are regular visitors to London Zoo. It explores the intersections between the time of retirement and the scales and directionality of time commonly invoked by zoological forms of knowledge about species and biodiversity. This includes a look at how both positive and negative theories of futures, including the future of the zoo itself, become a prism through which individuals examine their relationships to time towards the end of life. In addition, the paper focuses on those visitors who seek, in a hopeful manner, to reorient themselves in the city through engagements with individual captive animals.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZReed, AdamThis paper considers the spatio-temporal capacity of a set of relationships as they are identified by a group of older people who are regular visitors to London Zoo. It explores the intersections between the time of retirement and the scales and directionality of time commonly invoked by zoological forms of knowledge about species and biodiversity. This includes a look at how both positive and negative theories of futures, including the future of the zoo itself, become a prism through which individuals examine their relationships to time towards the end of life. In addition, the paper focuses on those visitors who seek, in a hopeful manner, to reorient themselves in the city through engagements with individual captive animals.Transverse Wave Induced Kelvin-Helmholtz rolls in spiculesAntolin, PatrickSchmit, DonPereira, Tiago M. D.De Pontieu, BartDe Moortel, Inekehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128802018-03-11T00:33:38Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZIn addition to their jet-like dynamic behaviour, spicules usually exhibit strong transverse speeds, multi-stranded structure and heating from chromospheric to transition region temperatures. In this work we first analyse Hinode & IRIS observations of spicules and find different behaviours in terms of their Doppler velocity evolution and collective motion of their sub-structure. Somehave a Doppler shift sign change that is rather fixed along the spicule axis, and lack coherence in the oscillatory motion of strand-like structure, matching rotation models or long wavelength torsional Alfvén waves. Others exhibit a Doppler shift sign change at maximum displacement and coherent motion of their strands, suggesting acollective MHD wave. By comparing with an idealised 3-D MHD simulation combined with radiative transfer modelling, we analyse the role of transverse MHD waves and associated instabilities in spicule-like features. We find that Transverse Wave Induced Kelvin-Helmholtz (TWIKH) rolls lead to coherence of strand-like structure in imaging and spectral maps, as seen in some observations. The rapid transverse dynamics and the density and temperature gradients at the spicule boundary lead toring-shaped Mg II k and Ca II H source functions in the transverse cross-section, potentially allowing IRIS to capture the KHI dynamics. Twists and currents propagate along the spicule at Alfvénic speeds, and the temperature variations within TWIKH rolls produce sudden appearance / disappearance of strands seen in Doppler velocity and in Ca II H intensity. However, only a mild intensity increase in higher temperature lines is obtained, suggesting there is an additional heating mechanism at work in spicules.
This research has received funding from the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council (Consolidated Grant ST/K000950/1) and the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No. 647214).
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZAntolin, PatrickSchmit, DonPereira, Tiago M. D.De Pontieu, BartDe Moortel, InekeIn addition to their jet-like dynamic behaviour, spicules usually exhibit strong transverse speeds, multi-stranded structure and heating from chromospheric to transition region temperatures. In this work we first analyse Hinode & IRIS observations of spicules and find different behaviours in terms of their Doppler velocity evolution and collective motion of their sub-structure. Somehave a Doppler shift sign change that is rather fixed along the spicule axis, and lack coherence in the oscillatory motion of strand-like structure, matching rotation models or long wavelength torsional Alfvén waves. Others exhibit a Doppler shift sign change at maximum displacement and coherent motion of their strands, suggesting acollective MHD wave. By comparing with an idealised 3-D MHD simulation combined with radiative transfer modelling, we analyse the role of transverse MHD waves and associated instabilities in spicule-like features. We find that Transverse Wave Induced Kelvin-Helmholtz (TWIKH) rolls lead to coherence of strand-like structure in imaging and spectral maps, as seen in some observations. The rapid transverse dynamics and the density and temperature gradients at the spicule boundary lead toring-shaped Mg II k and Ca II H source functions in the transverse cross-section, potentially allowing IRIS to capture the KHI dynamics. Twists and currents propagate along the spicule at Alfvénic speeds, and the temperature variations within TWIKH rolls produce sudden appearance / disappearance of strands seen in Doppler velocity and in Ca II H intensity. However, only a mild intensity increase in higher temperature lines is obtained, suggesting there is an additional heating mechanism at work in spicules.Weak convergence to extremal processes and record events for non-uniformly hyperbolic dynamical systemsHolland, MarkTodd, Mikehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128772018-03-09T00:15:38Z2017-09-07T00:00:00ZFor a measure-preserving dynamical system (X, ƒ, μ), we consider the time series of maxima Mn = max{X1,…,Xn} associated to the process Xn = φ (ƒn-1(x)) generated by the dynamical system for some observable φ : Χ → R . Using a point-process approach we establish weak convergence of the process Yn(t) = an(M[nt] - bn) to an extremal Y(t) process for suitable scaling constants an, bn ∈ R . Convergence here takes place in the Skorokhod space D(0, ∞) with the J1 topology. We also establish distributional results for the record times and record values of the corresponding maxima process.
This research was partially supported by the London Mathematics Society (Scheme 4, no. 41126), and both authors thank the Erwin Schroedigner Institute (ESI) in Vienna were part of this work was carried out. MH wishes to thank the Department of Mathematics, University of Houston for hospitality and financial support, and MT thanks Exeter University for their hospitality and support.
2017-09-07T00:00:00ZHolland, MarkTodd, MikeFor a measure-preserving dynamical system (X, ƒ, μ), we consider the time series of maxima Mn = max{X1,…,Xn} associated to the process Xn = φ (ƒn-1(x)) generated by the dynamical system for some observable φ : Χ → R . Using a point-process approach we establish weak convergence of the process Yn(t) = an(M[nt] - bn) to an extremal Y(t) process for suitable scaling constants an, bn ∈ R . Convergence here takes place in the Skorokhod space D(0, ∞) with the J1 topology. We also establish distributional results for the record times and record values of the corresponding maxima process.A solid state 94 GHz FMCW Doppler radar demonstrator for cloud profilingRobertson, Duncan A.Hunter, Robert I.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128762018-03-08T00:15:44Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZWe present the design and characterization of a ground-based, zenith-pointing, 94 GHz FMCW Doppler radar demonstrator for cloud profiling. The radar uses an all solid-state and relatively simple homodyne architecture and two, low sidelobe 0.5 m diameter Fresnel zone plate antennas to reduce system costs. The low-phase noise, coherent radar employs a direct digital synthesis (DDS) chip for highly linear chirp generation. The design will be able to leverage ongoing future improvements in mm-wave low noise and power amplifier technology to maximize sensitivity. Once the radar is installed in a rooftop location, the processor will perform real-time range-Doppler measurements with averaging, to yield target velocity spectra as a function of altitude.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZRobertson, Duncan A.Hunter, Robert I.We present the design and characterization of a ground-based, zenith-pointing, 94 GHz FMCW Doppler radar demonstrator for cloud profiling. The radar uses an all solid-state and relatively simple homodyne architecture and two, low sidelobe 0.5 m diameter Fresnel zone plate antennas to reduce system costs. The low-phase noise, coherent radar employs a direct digital synthesis (DDS) chip for highly linear chirp generation. The design will be able to leverage ongoing future improvements in mm-wave low noise and power amplifier technology to maximize sensitivity. Once the radar is installed in a rooftop location, the processor will perform real-time range-Doppler measurements with averaging, to yield target velocity spectra as a function of altitude.Millimeter-wave micro-Doppler measurements of small UAVsRahman, SamiurRobertson, Duncan A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128752018-03-08T00:15:44Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZThis paper discusses the micro-Doppler signatures of small UAVs obtained from a millimeter-wave radar system. At first, simulation results are shown to demonstrate the theoretical concept. It is illustrated that whilst the propeller rotation rate of the small UAVs is quite high, millimeter-wave radar systems are capable of capturing the full micro-Doppler spread. Measurements of small UAVs have been performed with both CW and FMCW radars operating at 94 GHz. The CW radar was used for obtaining micro-Doppler signatures of individual propellers. The field test data of a flying small UAV was collected with the FMCW radar and was processed to extract micro-Doppler signatures. The high fidelity results clearly reveal features such as blade flashes and propeller rotation modulation lines which can be used to classify targets. This work confirms that millimeter-wave radar is suitable for the detection and classification of small UAVs at usefully long ranges.
The authors acknowledge the funding received from the Science and Technology Facilities Council which has supported this work under grant ST/N006569/1.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZRahman, SamiurRobertson, Duncan A.This paper discusses the micro-Doppler signatures of small UAVs obtained from a millimeter-wave radar system. At first, simulation results are shown to demonstrate the theoretical concept. It is illustrated that whilst the propeller rotation rate of the small UAVs is quite high, millimeter-wave radar systems are capable of capturing the full micro-Doppler spread. Measurements of small UAVs have been performed with both CW and FMCW radars operating at 94 GHz. The CW radar was used for obtaining micro-Doppler signatures of individual propellers. The field test data of a flying small UAV was collected with the FMCW radar and was processed to extract micro-Doppler signatures. The high fidelity results clearly reveal features such as blade flashes and propeller rotation modulation lines which can be used to classify targets. This work confirms that millimeter-wave radar is suitable for the detection and classification of small UAVs at usefully long ranges.X-Shooter study of accretion in Chamaeleon IManara, C. F.Fedele, D.Herczeg, G. J.Teixeira, P. S.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128742018-03-08T00:15:43Z2016-01-11T00:00:00ZWe present the analysis of 34 new VLT/X-Shooter spectra of young stellar objects in the Chamaeleon I star-forming region, together with four more spectra of stars in Taurus and two in Chamaeleon II. The broad wavelength coverage and accurate flux calibration of our spectra allow us to estimate stellar and accretion parameters for our targets by fitting the photospheric and accretion continuum emission from the Balmer continuum down to ~700 nm. The dependence of accretion on stellar properties for this sample is consistent with previous results from the literature. The accretion rates for transitional disks are consistent with those of full disks in the same region. The spread of mass accretion rates at any given stellar mass is found to be smaller than inmany studies, but is larger than that derived in the Lupus clouds using similar data and techniques. Differences in the stellar mass range and in the environmental conditions between our sample and that of Lupus may account for the discrepancy in scatter between Chamaeleon I and Lupus.Complete samples in Chamaeleon I and Lupus are needed to determine whether the difference in scatter of accretion rates and the lack of evolutionary trends are not influenced by sample selection.
DF acknowledges support from the Italian Ministry of Science and Education (MIUR), project SIR (RBSI14ZRHR) and from the ESTEC Faculty Visiting Scientist Programme.
2016-01-11T00:00:00ZManara, C. F.Fedele, D.Herczeg, G. J.Teixeira, P. S.We present the analysis of 34 new VLT/X-Shooter spectra of young stellar objects in the Chamaeleon I star-forming region, together with four more spectra of stars in Taurus and two in Chamaeleon II. The broad wavelength coverage and accurate flux calibration of our spectra allow us to estimate stellar and accretion parameters for our targets by fitting the photospheric and accretion continuum emission from the Balmer continuum down to ~700 nm. The dependence of accretion on stellar properties for this sample is consistent with previous results from the literature. The accretion rates for transitional disks are consistent with those of full disks in the same region. The spread of mass accretion rates at any given stellar mass is found to be smaller than inmany studies, but is larger than that derived in the Lupus clouds using similar data and techniques. Differences in the stellar mass range and in the environmental conditions between our sample and that of Lupus may account for the discrepancy in scatter between Chamaeleon I and Lupus.Complete samples in Chamaeleon I and Lupus are needed to determine whether the difference in scatter of accretion rates and the lack of evolutionary trends are not influenced by sample selection.Two-level hierarchical fragmentation in the northern filament of the Orion Molecular Cloud 1Teixeira, P. S.Takahashi, S.Zapata, L. A.Ho, P. T. P.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128732018-03-08T00:15:43Z2016-03-01T00:00:00ZContext. The filamentary structure of molecular clouds may set important constraints on the mass distribution of stars forming within them. It is therefore important to understand which physical mechanism dominates filamentary cloud fragmentation and core formation. Aims. Orion A is the nearest giant molecular cloud, and its so-called ∫-shaped filament is a very active star-forming region that is a good target for such a study. We have recently reported on the collapse and fragmentation properties of the northernmost part of this structure,located ~2.4 pc north of Orion KL - Orion Molecular Cloud (OMC) 3. As part of our project to study the ∫-shaped filament, we analyze the fragmentation properties of the northern OMC 1 filament (located ≲0.3 pc north of Orion KL). This filament is a dense structure previously identified by JCMT/SCUBA submillimeter continuum and VLANH3 observations and was shown to have fragmented into clumps. Our aim is to search for cores and young protostars embedded within OMC 1n and to study how the filament is fragmenting to form them. Methods. We observed OMC 1North (hereafter OMC 1n) with the Submillimeter Array (SMA) at 1.3 mm and report on our analysis of the continuum data. Results. We discovered 24 new compact sources,ranging in mass from 0.1 to 2.3, in size from 400 to 1300 au, and indensity from 2.6 × 107 to 2.8 × 106cm-3. The masses of these sources are similar to those of the SMA protostars in OMC 3, but their typical sizes and densities are lower by a factor of ten. Only 8% of the new sources have infrared counterparts, but there are five associated CO molecular outflows. These sources are thus likely in the Class 0 evolutionary phase but it cannot be excluded that some of the sources might still be pre-stellar cores.The spatial analysis of the protostars shows that they are divided into small groups that coincide with previously identified JCMT/SCUBA 850μm and VLA NH3 clumps, which are separated by a quasi-equidistant length of ≈30' (0.06 pc). This separation is dominated by the Jeans length and therefore indicates that the main physical process in the filament evolution was thermal fragmentation.Within the protostellar groups, the typical separation is ≈6'' (~2500au), which is a factor 2-3 smaller than the Jeans length of the parental clumps within which the protostars are embedded. These results point to a hierarchical (two-level) thermal fragmentation process of the OMC 1n filament.
P. S. T. is very grateful for support from the Joint ALMA Observatory (Santiago, Chile) Science Visitor Programme while visiting co-author S. Takahashi.
2016-03-01T00:00:00ZTeixeira, P. S.Takahashi, S.Zapata, L. A.Ho, P. T. P.Context. The filamentary structure of molecular clouds may set important constraints on the mass distribution of stars forming within them. It is therefore important to understand which physical mechanism dominates filamentary cloud fragmentation and core formation. Aims. Orion A is the nearest giant molecular cloud, and its so-called ∫-shaped filament is a very active star-forming region that is a good target for such a study. We have recently reported on the collapse and fragmentation properties of the northernmost part of this structure,located ~2.4 pc north of Orion KL - Orion Molecular Cloud (OMC) 3. As part of our project to study the ∫-shaped filament, we analyze the fragmentation properties of the northern OMC 1 filament (located ≲0.3 pc north of Orion KL). This filament is a dense structure previously identified by JCMT/SCUBA submillimeter continuum and VLANH3 observations and was shown to have fragmented into clumps. Our aim is to search for cores and young protostars embedded within OMC 1n and to study how the filament is fragmenting to form them. Methods. We observed OMC 1North (hereafter OMC 1n) with the Submillimeter Array (SMA) at 1.3 mm and report on our analysis of the continuum data. Results. We discovered 24 new compact sources,ranging in mass from 0.1 to 2.3, in size from 400 to 1300 au, and indensity from 2.6 × 107 to 2.8 × 106cm-3. The masses of these sources are similar to those of the SMA protostars in OMC 3, but their typical sizes and densities are lower by a factor of ten. Only 8% of the new sources have infrared counterparts, but there are five associated CO molecular outflows. These sources are thus likely in the Class 0 evolutionary phase but it cannot be excluded that some of the sources might still be pre-stellar cores.The spatial analysis of the protostars shows that they are divided into small groups that coincide with previously identified JCMT/SCUBA 850μm and VLA NH3 clumps, which are separated by a quasi-equidistant length of ≈30' (0.06 pc). This separation is dominated by the Jeans length and therefore indicates that the main physical process in the filament evolution was thermal fragmentation.Within the protostellar groups, the typical separation is ≈6'' (~2500au), which is a factor 2-3 smaller than the Jeans length of the parental clumps within which the protostars are embedded. These results point to a hierarchical (two-level) thermal fragmentation process of the OMC 1n filament.VISION - Vienna survey in Orion. I. VISTA Orion A SurveyMeingast, StefanAlves, JoãoMardones, DiegoTeixeira, Paula StellaLombardi, MarcoGroßschedl, JosefaAscenso, JoanaBouy, HerveForbrich, JanGoodman, AlyssaHacar, AlvaroHasenberger, BirgitKainulainen, JouniKubiak, KarolinaLada, CharlesLada, ElizabethMoitinho, AndréPetr-Gotzens, MonikaRodrigues, LaraRomán-Zúñiga, Carlos G.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128722018-03-08T00:15:40Z2016-03-07T00:00:00ZContext. Orion A hosts the nearest massive star factory, thus offering a unique opportunity to resolve the processes connected with the formation of both low- and high-mass stars. Here we present the most detailed and sensitive near-infrared (NIR) observations of the entire molecular cloud to date. Aims. With the unique combination of high image quality,survey coverage, and sensitivity, our NIR survey of Orion A aims at establishing a solid empirical foundation for further studies of this important cloud. In this first paper we present the observations, data reduction, and source catalog generation. To demonstrate the data quality, we present a first application of our catalog to estimate the number of stars currently forming inside Orion A and to verify the existence of a more evolved young foreground population. Methods. We used the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA) to survey the entire Orion A molecular cloud in the NIR J, H, and KS bands, covering a total of ~18.3 deg2. We implemented all data reduction recipes independently of the ESO pipeline. Estimates of the young populations toward Orion A are derived via the KS-band luminosity function. Results. Our catalog (799 995 sources)increases the source counts compared to the Two Micron All Sky Survey by about an order of magnitude. The 90% completeness limits are 20.4, 19.9, and 19.0 mag in J, H, and KS, respectively. The reduced images have 20% better resolution on average compared to pipeline products. We find between 2300 and 3000 embedded objects in Orion A and confirm that there is an extended foreground population above the Galactic field, in agreement with previous work. Conclusions. The Orion A VISTA catalog represents the most detailed NIR view of the nearest massive star-forming region and provides a fundamental basis for future studies of star formation processes toward Orion.
Stefan Meingast is a recipient of a DOC Fellowship of the Austrian Academy of Sciences at the Institute for Astrophysics, University of Vienna. H. Bouy is supported by the the Ramón y Cajal fellowship program number RYC-2009-04497 and by the Spanish Grant AYA2012-38897-C02-01.
2016-03-07T00:00:00ZMeingast, StefanAlves, JoãoMardones, DiegoTeixeira, Paula StellaLombardi, MarcoGroßschedl, JosefaAscenso, JoanaBouy, HerveForbrich, JanGoodman, AlyssaHacar, AlvaroHasenberger, BirgitKainulainen, JouniKubiak, KarolinaLada, CharlesLada, ElizabethMoitinho, AndréPetr-Gotzens, MonikaRodrigues, LaraRomán-Zúñiga, Carlos G.Context. Orion A hosts the nearest massive star factory, thus offering a unique opportunity to resolve the processes connected with the formation of both low- and high-mass stars. Here we present the most detailed and sensitive near-infrared (NIR) observations of the entire molecular cloud to date. Aims. With the unique combination of high image quality,survey coverage, and sensitivity, our NIR survey of Orion A aims at establishing a solid empirical foundation for further studies of this important cloud. In this first paper we present the observations, data reduction, and source catalog generation. To demonstrate the data quality, we present a first application of our catalog to estimate the number of stars currently forming inside Orion A and to verify the existence of a more evolved young foreground population. Methods. We used the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA) to survey the entire Orion A molecular cloud in the NIR J, H, and KS bands, covering a total of ~18.3 deg2. We implemented all data reduction recipes independently of the ESO pipeline. Estimates of the young populations toward Orion A are derived via the KS-band luminosity function. Results. Our catalog (799 995 sources)increases the source counts compared to the Two Micron All Sky Survey by about an order of magnitude. The 90% completeness limits are 20.4, 19.9, and 19.0 mag in J, H, and KS, respectively. The reduced images have 20% better resolution on average compared to pipeline products. We find between 2300 and 3000 embedded objects in Orion A and confirm that there is an extended foreground population above the Galactic field, in agreement with previous work. Conclusions. The Orion A VISTA catalog represents the most detailed NIR view of the nearest massive star-forming region and provides a fundamental basis for future studies of star formation processes toward Orion.CSI 2264 : accretion process in classical T Tauri stars in the young cluster NGC 2264Sousa, A. P.Alencar, S. H. P.Bouvier, J.Stauffer, J.Venuti, L.Hillenbrand, L.Cody, A. M.Teixeira, P. S.Guimarães, M. M.McGinnis, P. T.Rebull, L.Flaccomio, E.Fürész, G.Micela, G.Gameiro, J. F.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128712018-03-11T01:37:55Z2016-02-01T00:00:00ZContext. NGC 2264 is a young stellar cluster (~3 Myr) with hundreds of low-mass accreting stars that allow a detailed analysis of the accretion process taking place in the pre-main sequence. Aims. Our goal is to relate the photometric and spectroscopic variability of classical T Tauri stars to the physical processes acting in the stellar and circumstellar environment, within a few stellar radii from the star. Methods. NGC 2264 was the target of a multiwavelength observational campaign with CoRoT, MOST, Spitzer, and Chandra satellites and photometric and spectroscopic observations from the ground. We classified the CoRoT light curves of accreting systems according to their morphology and compared our classification to several accretion diagnostics and disk parameters. Results. The morphology of the CoRoT light curve reflects the evolution of the accretion process and of the inner disk region. Accretion burst stars present high mass-accretion rates and optically thick inner disks. AA Tau-like systems, whose light curves are dominated by circumstellar dust obscuration, show intermediate mass-accretion rates and are located in the transition of thick to anemic disks. Classical T Tauri stars with spot-like light curves correspond mostly to systems with a low mass-accretion rate and low mid-IR excess. About 30% of the classical T Tauri stars observed inthe 2008 and 2011 CoRoT runs changed their light-curve morphology.Transitions from AA Tau-like and spot-like to a periodic light curves and vice versa were common. The analysis of the Hα emission line variability of 58 accreting stars showed that 8 presented a periodicity that in a few cases was coincident with the photometric period. The blue and red wings of the Hα line profiles often do not correlate with each other, indicating that they are strongly influenced by different physical processes. Classical T Tauri stars have a dynamic stellar and circumstellar environment that can be explained by magnetospheric accretion and outflow models, including variations from stable to unstable accretion regimes on timescales of a few years.
APS and SHPA acknowledge support from CNPq, CAPES and Fapemig. JFG acknowledges support from FCT ref project UID/FIS/04434/2013.
2016-02-01T00:00:00ZSousa, A. P.Alencar, S. H. P.Bouvier, J.Stauffer, J.Venuti, L.Hillenbrand, L.Cody, A. M.Teixeira, P. S.Guimarães, M. M.McGinnis, P. T.Rebull, L.Flaccomio, E.Fürész, G.Micela, G.Gameiro, J. F.Context. NGC 2264 is a young stellar cluster (~3 Myr) with hundreds of low-mass accreting stars that allow a detailed analysis of the accretion process taking place in the pre-main sequence. Aims. Our goal is to relate the photometric and spectroscopic variability of classical T Tauri stars to the physical processes acting in the stellar and circumstellar environment, within a few stellar radii from the star. Methods. NGC 2264 was the target of a multiwavelength observational campaign with CoRoT, MOST, Spitzer, and Chandra satellites and photometric and spectroscopic observations from the ground. We classified the CoRoT light curves of accreting systems according to their morphology and compared our classification to several accretion diagnostics and disk parameters. Results. The morphology of the CoRoT light curve reflects the evolution of the accretion process and of the inner disk region. Accretion burst stars present high mass-accretion rates and optically thick inner disks. AA Tau-like systems, whose light curves are dominated by circumstellar dust obscuration, show intermediate mass-accretion rates and are located in the transition of thick to anemic disks. Classical T Tauri stars with spot-like light curves correspond mostly to systems with a low mass-accretion rate and low mid-IR excess. About 30% of the classical T Tauri stars observed inthe 2008 and 2011 CoRoT runs changed their light-curve morphology.Transitions from AA Tau-like and spot-like to a periodic light curves and vice versa were common. The analysis of the Hα emission line variability of 58 accreting stars showed that 8 presented a periodicity that in a few cases was coincident with the photometric period. The blue and red wings of the Hα line profiles often do not correlate with each other, indicating that they are strongly influenced by different physical processes. Classical T Tauri stars have a dynamic stellar and circumstellar environment that can be explained by magnetospheric accretion and outflow models, including variations from stable to unstable accretion regimes on timescales of a few years.Stability of the broad line region geometry and dynamics in Arp 151 over seven yearsPancoast, A.Barth, A. J.Horne, Keith DouglasTreu, T.Brewer, B. J.Bennert, V. N.Canalizo, G.Gates, E. L.Li, W.Malkan, M. A.Sand, D.Schmidt, T.Valenti, S.Woo, J. H.Clubb, K. I.Cooper, M. C.Crawford, S. M.Hönig, S. F.Joner, M. D.Kandrashoff, M. T.Lazarova, M.Nierenberg, A. M.Romero-Colmenero, E.Son, D.Tollerud, E.Walsh, J. L.Winkler, H.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128702018-03-11T00:33:37Z2018-02-28T00:00:00ZThe Seyfert 1 galaxy Arp 151 was monitored as part of three reverberation mapping campaigns spanning 2008−2015. We present modeling of these velocity-resolved reverberation mapping datasets using a geometric and dynamical model for the broad line region (BLR). By modeling each of the three datasets independently, we infer the evolution of the BLR structure in Arp 151 over a total of seven years and constrain the systematic uncertainties in non-varying parameters such as the black hole mass. We find that the BLR geometry of a thick disk viewed close to face-on is stable over this time, although the size of the BLR grows by a factor of 2. The dynamics of the BLR are dominated by inflow and the inferred black hole mass is consistent for the three datasets, despite the increase in BLR size. Combining the inference for the three datasets yields a black hole mass and statistical uncertainty of log10(MBH/M⊙) = 6.82(^+0.09_−0.09) with a standard deviation in individual measurements of 0.13 dex.
KH acknowledges support from STFC grant ST/M001296/1.
2018-02-28T00:00:00ZPancoast, A.Barth, A. J.Horne, Keith DouglasTreu, T.Brewer, B. J.Bennert, V. N.Canalizo, G.Gates, E. L.Li, W.Malkan, M. A.Sand, D.Schmidt, T.Valenti, S.Woo, J. H.Clubb, K. I.Cooper, M. C.Crawford, S. M.Hönig, S. F.Joner, M. D.Kandrashoff, M. T.Lazarova, M.Nierenberg, A. M.Romero-Colmenero, E.Son, D.Tollerud, E.Walsh, J. L.Winkler, H.The Seyfert 1 galaxy Arp 151 was monitored as part of three reverberation mapping campaigns spanning 2008−2015. We present modeling of these velocity-resolved reverberation mapping datasets using a geometric and dynamical model for the broad line region (BLR). By modeling each of the three datasets independently, we infer the evolution of the BLR structure in Arp 151 over a total of seven years and constrain the systematic uncertainties in non-varying parameters such as the black hole mass. We find that the BLR geometry of a thick disk viewed close to face-on is stable over this time, although the size of the BLR grows by a factor of 2. The dynamics of the BLR are dominated by inflow and the inferred black hole mass is consistent for the three datasets, despite the increase in BLR size. Combining the inference for the three datasets yields a black hole mass and statistical uncertainty of log10(MBH/M⊙) = 6.82(^+0.09_−0.09) with a standard deviation in individual measurements of 0.13 dex.Unpacking summary measures of ethnic residential segregation using an age group and age cohort perspectiveSabater, AlbertCatney, Gemmahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128692018-03-12T12:30:04Z2018-03-06T00:00:00ZThe residential segregation literature has underplayed the significance of age in shaping the ethnic compositions of neighbourhoods. This paper develops an age group and age cohort perspective as a way to unpack summary measures of residential segregation. Harmonised small area data for England and Wales (2001–2011) are used as a case study to explore the potential of this methodology for understanding better the role of age in the evolution of ethnic residential geographies. Our findings demonstrate the age-specificity of residential segregation, for both cross-sectional patterns and change over time. Levels of segregation vary among age groups and age cohorts and between ethnic groups, with a changing pattern of segregation as people age. Exploring change over a 10-year period, we observe that residential segregation decreases during young adulthood for all age cohorts, then increases during the late 20s and early 30s, and continues to increase until retirement. These trends are, for the most, consistent between ethnic groups. Our findings emphasise how residential segregation is a dynamic process with a significant life cycle component, with commonalities in residential decision-making between ethnic groups through the life course.
Funding: UK Economic and Social Research Council (ES/K007394/1)
2018-03-06T00:00:00ZSabater, AlbertCatney, GemmaThe residential segregation literature has underplayed the significance of age in shaping the ethnic compositions of neighbourhoods. This paper develops an age group and age cohort perspective as a way to unpack summary measures of residential segregation. Harmonised small area data for England and Wales (2001–2011) are used as a case study to explore the potential of this methodology for understanding better the role of age in the evolution of ethnic residential geographies. Our findings demonstrate the age-specificity of residential segregation, for both cross-sectional patterns and change over time. Levels of segregation vary among age groups and age cohorts and between ethnic groups, with a changing pattern of segregation as people age. Exploring change over a 10-year period, we observe that residential segregation decreases during young adulthood for all age cohorts, then increases during the late 20s and early 30s, and continues to increase until retirement. These trends are, for the most, consistent between ethnic groups. Our findings emphasise how residential segregation is a dynamic process with a significant life cycle component, with commonalities in residential decision-making between ethnic groups through the life course.Automated data gathering and training tool for personalized "Itchy Nose"lee, JuyoungYeo, Hui ShyongStarner, ThadQuigley, Aaron JohnKunze, KaiWoo, Woontackhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128682018-03-08T00:15:39Z2018-02-07T00:00:00ZIn "Itchy Nose" we proposed a sensing technique for detecting finger movements on the nose for supporting subtle and discreet interaction. It uses the electrooculography sensors embedded in the frame of a pair of eyeglasses for data gathering and uses machine-learning technique to classify different gestures. Here we further propose an automated training and visualization tool for its classifier. This tool guides the user to make the gesture in proper timing and records the sensor data. It automatically picks the ground truth and trains a machine-learning classifier with it. With this tool, we can quickly create trained classifier that is personalized for the user and test various gestures.
2018-02-07T00:00:00Zlee, JuyoungYeo, Hui ShyongStarner, ThadQuigley, Aaron JohnKunze, KaiWoo, WoontackIn "Itchy Nose" we proposed a sensing technique for detecting finger movements on the nose for supporting subtle and discreet interaction. It uses the electrooculography sensors embedded in the frame of a pair of eyeglasses for data gathering and uses machine-learning technique to classify different gestures. Here we further propose an automated training and visualization tool for its classifier. This tool guides the user to make the gesture in proper timing and records the sensor data. It automatically picks the ground truth and trains a machine-learning classifier with it. With this tool, we can quickly create trained classifier that is personalized for the user and test various gestures.Cyclic formation and stabilization of Archean lithosphere by accretionary orogenesis : constraints from TTG and potassic granitoids, North China CratonWang, WeiCawood, Peter A.Liu, ShuwenGuo, RongrongBai, XiangWang, Kanghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128662018-03-08T00:15:38Z2017-09-06T00:00:00ZAccretionary orogens are major sites of modern continental growth, yet their role in the development of Archean continental crust remains enigmatic. Diverse granitoid suites from tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) to potassic granitoids appeared during late Archean, representing a period of major continental formation and stabilization. In this study, whole-rock geochemical and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic data are reported for Neoarchean granitoid gneisses from the Northern Liaoning Terrane, northeastern North China Craton (NCC). Older granitoid gneisses (~2592-2537 Ma) define three magmatic zones migrating from southeast to northwest, each showing a common magmatic evolution from high-pressure TTGs to medium-/low-pressure TTGs and potassic granitoids. They have depleted zircon ƐHf(t) of +0.5 to +8.7. Younger ~2529-2503 Ma potassic granitoids and TTGs occur throughout the terrane, which are marked by variable zircon ƐHf(t) of -4.7 to +8.1, and are coeval with regional high grade metamorphism. Petrogenetic modeling and changing Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N of the granitoids suggest that the crust experienced episodic thickening and thinning, and became progressively evolved through development of potassic granitoids and sedimentary successions. The metavolcanic basement to the granitoids display tholeiitic to calc-alkaline affinities, together with the top-to-the-northwest thrusting and associated VMS-type Cu-Zn deposits, suggesting cyclic crustal formation of Northern Liaoning within an accretionary orogen with a SE-dipping subduction polarity. Cyclic crustal thickening and thinning is related to tectonic switching from advancing to retreating relations between the downgoing and overriding plate. After ~2530 Ma, this accretionary system accreted to the ancient continental nucleus of NCC (Anshan-Benxi Terrane), signifying final lithosphere stabilization.
This study is financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 41502179, 41530207, 41472165) and Central University Basic Scientific Research Business Expenses of China University of Geosciences (Beijing) (Grant No. 2652015038). PAC acknowledges support from Australian Research Council grant FL160100168.
2017-09-06T00:00:00ZWang, WeiCawood, Peter A.Liu, ShuwenGuo, RongrongBai, XiangWang, KangAccretionary orogens are major sites of modern continental growth, yet their role in the development of Archean continental crust remains enigmatic. Diverse granitoid suites from tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) to potassic granitoids appeared during late Archean, representing a period of major continental formation and stabilization. In this study, whole-rock geochemical and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic data are reported for Neoarchean granitoid gneisses from the Northern Liaoning Terrane, northeastern North China Craton (NCC). Older granitoid gneisses (~2592-2537 Ma) define three magmatic zones migrating from southeast to northwest, each showing a common magmatic evolution from high-pressure TTGs to medium-/low-pressure TTGs and potassic granitoids. They have depleted zircon ƐHf(t) of +0.5 to +8.7. Younger ~2529-2503 Ma potassic granitoids and TTGs occur throughout the terrane, which are marked by variable zircon ƐHf(t) of -4.7 to +8.1, and are coeval with regional high grade metamorphism. Petrogenetic modeling and changing Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N of the granitoids suggest that the crust experienced episodic thickening and thinning, and became progressively evolved through development of potassic granitoids and sedimentary successions. The metavolcanic basement to the granitoids display tholeiitic to calc-alkaline affinities, together with the top-to-the-northwest thrusting and associated VMS-type Cu-Zn deposits, suggesting cyclic crustal formation of Northern Liaoning within an accretionary orogen with a SE-dipping subduction polarity. Cyclic crustal thickening and thinning is related to tectonic switching from advancing to retreating relations between the downgoing and overriding plate. After ~2530 Ma, this accretionary system accreted to the ancient continental nucleus of NCC (Anshan-Benxi Terrane), signifying final lithosphere stabilization.The economic value of river restorationBrouwer, RoySheremet, Oleghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128652018-03-08T00:15:37Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZIntroduction to the special issue and a meta-analysis of the nonmarket valuation literature to inform river restoration policy and decision-making
This study was part of the European Framework 7 funded project ‘Restoring Rivers for Effective Catchment Management’ (REFORM).
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZBrouwer, RoySheremet, OlegIntroduction to the special issue and a meta-analysis of the nonmarket valuation literature to inform river restoration policy and decision-makingMild, aqueous α-arylation of ketones : towards new diversification tools for halogenated metabolites and drug moleculesMarelli, EnricoRenault, YohannSharma, Sunil V.Nolan, Steven P.Goss, Rebecca J. M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128642018-03-08T00:15:37Z2017-03-17T00:00:00ZThe palladium-catalyzed aqueous α-arylation of ketones was developed and tested for a large variety of reaction partners. These mild conditions enabled the coupling of aryl/ alkyl-ketones with N-protected halotryptophans, heterocyclic haloarenes, and challenging base-sensitive compounds. The synthetic potential of this new methodology for the diversification of complex bioactive molecules was exemplified by derivatising prochlorperazine. The methodology is mild, aqueous and flexible, representing a means of functionalizing a wide range of halo-aromatics and therefore has the potential to be extended to complex molecule diversification.
The authors thank the European Research Council (FP7/2007-2013/ERC grant agreement no 614779 to RJMG) and (FP7 2009-2014/ERC agreement no 227817 to SPN) for generous funding.
2017-03-17T00:00:00ZMarelli, EnricoRenault, YohannSharma, Sunil V.Nolan, Steven P.Goss, Rebecca J. M.The palladium-catalyzed aqueous α-arylation of ketones was developed and tested for a large variety of reaction partners. These mild conditions enabled the coupling of aryl/ alkyl-ketones with N-protected halotryptophans, heterocyclic haloarenes, and challenging base-sensitive compounds. The synthetic potential of this new methodology for the diversification of complex bioactive molecules was exemplified by derivatising prochlorperazine. The methodology is mild, aqueous and flexible, representing a means of functionalizing a wide range of halo-aromatics and therefore has the potential to be extended to complex molecule diversification.Reinvestigation of the crystal structure of it N-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-2-hydroxyaniline : a three-dimensional structure containing O—H···N, O—H···O and C—H···π(arene) hydrogen bondsGirisha, MarisiddaiahYathirajan, Hemmige S.Rathore, Ravindranath S.Glidewell, Christopherhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128622018-03-11T00:33:38Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZThe molecule of the title compound, C13H10ClNO, (I), which contains an intramolecular O—H···N hydrogen bond, is almost planar: the dihedral angle between the two aryl rings is only 3.31 (9)°. The molecules of (I) are linked into sheets by two C—H···π(arene) hydrogen bonds and the sheets are linked into a three-dimensional structure by O—H···O hydrogen bonds. Comparisons are made with the structures of a number of related compounds.
MG thanks the UGC (India) for the award of a Rajeev Gandhi fellowship.
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZGirisha, MarisiddaiahYathirajan, Hemmige S.Rathore, Ravindranath S.Glidewell, ChristopherThe molecule of the title compound, C13H10ClNO, (I), which contains an intramolecular O—H···N hydrogen bond, is almost planar: the dihedral angle between the two aryl rings is only 3.31 (9)°. The molecules of (I) are linked into sheets by two C—H···π(arene) hydrogen bonds and the sheets are linked into a three-dimensional structure by O—H···O hydrogen bonds. Comparisons are made with the structures of a number of related compounds.Computational understanding of Li-ion batteriesUrban, AlexanderSeo, Dong-HwaCeder, Gerbrandhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128602018-03-18T02:30:33Z2016-03-18T00:00:00ZOver the last two decades, computational methods have made tremendous advances, and today many key properties of lithium-ion batteries can be accurately predicted by first principles calculations. For this reason, computations have become a cornerstone of battery-related research by providing insight into fundamental processes that are not otherwise accessible, such as ionic diffusion mechanisms and electronic structure effects, as well as a quantitative comparison with experimental results. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of state-of-the-art ab initio approaches for the modelling of battery materials. We consider techniques for the computation of equilibrium cell voltages, 0-Kelvin and finite-temperature voltage profiles, ionic mobility and thermal and electrolyte stability. The strengths and weaknesses of different electronic structure methods, such as DFT+U and hybrid functionals, are discussed in the context of voltage and phase diagram predictions, and we review the merits of lattice models for the evaluation of finite-temperature thermodynamics and kinetics. With such a complete set of methods at hand, first principles calculations of ordered, crystalline solids, i.e., of most electrode materials and solid electrolytes, have become reliable and quantitative. However, the description of molecular materials and disordered or amorphous phases remains an important challenge. We highlight recent exciting progress in this area, especially regarding the modelling of organic electrolytes and solid-electrolyte interfaces.
This work was supported primarily by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under Contract No. DE-FG02-96ER45571.
2016-03-18T00:00:00ZUrban, AlexanderSeo, Dong-HwaCeder, GerbrandOver the last two decades, computational methods have made tremendous advances, and today many key properties of lithium-ion batteries can be accurately predicted by first principles calculations. For this reason, computations have become a cornerstone of battery-related research by providing insight into fundamental processes that are not otherwise accessible, such as ionic diffusion mechanisms and electronic structure effects, as well as a quantitative comparison with experimental results. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of state-of-the-art ab initio approaches for the modelling of battery materials. We consider techniques for the computation of equilibrium cell voltages, 0-Kelvin and finite-temperature voltage profiles, ionic mobility and thermal and electrolyte stability. The strengths and weaknesses of different electronic structure methods, such as DFT+U and hybrid functionals, are discussed in the context of voltage and phase diagram predictions, and we review the merits of lattice models for the evaluation of finite-temperature thermodynamics and kinetics. With such a complete set of methods at hand, first principles calculations of ordered, crystalline solids, i.e., of most electrode materials and solid electrolytes, have become reliable and quantitative. However, the description of molecular materials and disordered or amorphous phases remains an important challenge. We highlight recent exciting progress in this area, especially regarding the modelling of organic electrolytes and solid-electrolyte interfaces.Clinical parameters of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) following different triggers of oocyte maturation in IVF treatmentAbbara, A.Islam, R.Clarke, S. A.Jeffers, L.Christopoulos, G.Comninos, A. N.Salim, R.Lavery, S. A.Vuong, T.N.L.Humaidan, P.Kelsey, T. W.Trew, G.H.Dhillo, W.S.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128592018-03-07T00:15:40Z2018-03-06T00:00:00ZObjective. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious iatrogenic condition, predominantly related to the hormone used to induce oocyte maturation during IVF treatment. Kisspeptin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that has recently been demonstrated to safely trigger final oocyte maturation during IVF treatment even in women at high risk of OHSS. However to date, the safety of kisspeptin has not been compared to current hormonal triggers of oocyte maturation. Design. We conducted a retrospective single-centre cohort study investigating symptoms and clinical parameters of early OHSS in women at high risk of OHSS (antral follicle count or total number of follicles on day of trigger ≥23) triggered with hCG (n=40), GnRH agonist (GnRHa; n=99), or kisspeptin (n=122) at Hammersmith Hospital IVF unit, London, UK (2013-2016). Results. Clinical Parameters of OHSS: Median ovarian volume was larger following hCG (138mls) than GnRHa (73mls; P<0.0001), and in turn kisspeptin (44mls; P<0.0001). Median ovarian volume remained enlarged 20-fold following hCG, 8-fold following GnRHa and 5-fold following kisspeptin compared to pre-stimulation ovarian volumes. Mean (±SD) ascitic volumes were lesser following GnRHa (9±44mls) and kisspeptin (5±8mls) than hCG (62±84mls; p<0.0001). Symptoms of OHSS were most frequent following hCG and least frequent following kisspeptin. Diagnosis of OHSS: The odds ratio for OHSS diagnosis was 33·6 (CI 12·6-89·5) following hCG and 3·6 (CI 1·8-7·1) following GnRHa, when compared to kisspeptin. Conclusion. Triggering oocyte maturation by inducing endogenous gonadotropin release is preferable to the use of exogenous hCG in women at high risk of OHSS.
This paper presents independent research funded by grants from the MRC, BBSRC and NIHR and supported by the NIHR Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.
2018-03-06T00:00:00ZAbbara, A.Islam, R.Clarke, S. A.Jeffers, L.Christopoulos, G.Comninos, A. N.Salim, R.Lavery, S. A.Vuong, T.N.L.Humaidan, P.Kelsey, T. W.Trew, G.H.Dhillo, W.S.Objective. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious iatrogenic condition, predominantly related to the hormone used to induce oocyte maturation during IVF treatment. Kisspeptin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that has recently been demonstrated to safely trigger final oocyte maturation during IVF treatment even in women at high risk of OHSS. However to date, the safety of kisspeptin has not been compared to current hormonal triggers of oocyte maturation. Design. We conducted a retrospective single-centre cohort study investigating symptoms and clinical parameters of early OHSS in women at high risk of OHSS (antral follicle count or total number of follicles on day of trigger ≥23) triggered with hCG (n=40), GnRH agonist (GnRHa; n=99), or kisspeptin (n=122) at Hammersmith Hospital IVF unit, London, UK (2013-2016). Results. Clinical Parameters of OHSS: Median ovarian volume was larger following hCG (138mls) than GnRHa (73mls; P<0.0001), and in turn kisspeptin (44mls; P<0.0001). Median ovarian volume remained enlarged 20-fold following hCG, 8-fold following GnRHa and 5-fold following kisspeptin compared to pre-stimulation ovarian volumes. Mean (±SD) ascitic volumes were lesser following GnRHa (9±44mls) and kisspeptin (5±8mls) than hCG (62±84mls; p<0.0001). Symptoms of OHSS were most frequent following hCG and least frequent following kisspeptin. Diagnosis of OHSS: The odds ratio for OHSS diagnosis was 33·6 (CI 12·6-89·5) following hCG and 3·6 (CI 1·8-7·1) following GnRHa, when compared to kisspeptin. Conclusion. Triggering oocyte maturation by inducing endogenous gonadotropin release is preferable to the use of exogenous hCG in women at high risk of OHSS.Millimeter wave imaging : a historical reviewAppleby, RogerRobertson, Duncan A.Wikner, Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128582018-03-07T00:15:40Z2017-05-11T00:00:00ZThe SPIE Passive and Active Millimeter Wave Imaging conference has provided an annual focus and forum for practitioners in the field of millimeter wave imaging for the past two decades. To celebrate the conference's twentieth anniversary we present a historical review of the evolution of millimeter wave imaging over the past twenty years. Advances in device technology play a fundamental role in imaging capability whilst system architectures have also evolved. Imaging phenomenology continues to be a crucial topic underpinning the deployment of millimeter wave imaging in diverse applications such as security, remote sensing, non-destructive testing and synthetic vision.
2017-05-11T00:00:00ZAppleby, RogerRobertson, Duncan A.Wikner, DavidThe SPIE Passive and Active Millimeter Wave Imaging conference has provided an annual focus and forum for practitioners in the field of millimeter wave imaging for the past two decades. To celebrate the conference's twentieth anniversary we present a historical review of the evolution of millimeter wave imaging over the past twenty years. Advances in device technology play a fundamental role in imaging capability whilst system architectures have also evolved. Imaging phenomenology continues to be a crucial topic underpinning the deployment of millimeter wave imaging in diverse applications such as security, remote sensing, non-destructive testing and synthetic vision.Finding and proving the exact ground state of a generalized Ising model by convex optimization and MAX-SATHuang, WenxuanKitchaev, Daniil A.Dacek, Stephen T.Rong, ZiqinUrban, AlexanderCao, ShanLuo, ChuanCeder, Gerbrandhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128572018-03-09T11:30:09Z2016-10-21T00:00:00ZLattice models, also known as generalized Ising models or cluster expansions, are widely used in many areas of science and are routinely applied to the study of alloy thermodynamics, solid-solid phase transitions, magnetic and thermal properties of solids, fluid mechanics, and others. However, the problem of finding and proving the global ground state of a lattice model, which is essential for all of the aforementioned applications, has remained unresolved for relatively complex practical systems, with only a limited number of results for highly simplified systems known. In this paper, we present a practical and general algorithm that provides a provable periodically constrained ground state of a complex lattice model up to a given unit cell size and in many cases is able to prove global optimality over all other choices of unit cell. We transform the infinite-discrete-optimization problem into a pair of combinatorial optimization (MAX-SAT) and nonsmooth convex optimization (MAX-MIN) problems, which provide upper and lower bounds on the ground state energy, respectively. By systematically converging these bounds to each other, we may find and prove the exact ground state of realistic Hamiltonians whose exact solutions are difficult, if not impossible, to obtain via traditional methods. Considering that currently such practical Hamiltonians are solved using simulated annealing and genetic algorithms that are often unable to find the true global energy minimum and inherently cannot prove the optimality of their result, our paper opens the door to resolving longstanding uncertainties in lattice models of physical phenomena. An implementation of the algorithm is available at https://github.com/dkitch/maxsat-ising
This paper was supported primarily by the US Department of Energy (DOE) under Contract No. DE-FG02-96ER45571. In addition, some of the test cases for ground states were supported by the Office of Naval Research under contract N00014-14-1-0444.
2016-10-21T00:00:00ZHuang, WenxuanKitchaev, Daniil A.Dacek, Stephen T.Rong, ZiqinUrban, AlexanderCao, ShanLuo, ChuanCeder, GerbrandLattice models, also known as generalized Ising models or cluster expansions, are widely used in many areas of science and are routinely applied to the study of alloy thermodynamics, solid-solid phase transitions, magnetic and thermal properties of solids, fluid mechanics, and others. However, the problem of finding and proving the global ground state of a lattice model, which is essential for all of the aforementioned applications, has remained unresolved for relatively complex practical systems, with only a limited number of results for highly simplified systems known. In this paper, we present a practical and general algorithm that provides a provable periodically constrained ground state of a complex lattice model up to a given unit cell size and in many cases is able to prove global optimality over all other choices of unit cell. We transform the infinite-discrete-optimization problem into a pair of combinatorial optimization (MAX-SAT) and nonsmooth convex optimization (MAX-MIN) problems, which provide upper and lower bounds on the ground state energy, respectively. By systematically converging these bounds to each other, we may find and prove the exact ground state of realistic Hamiltonians whose exact solutions are difficult, if not impossible, to obtain via traditional methods. Considering that currently such practical Hamiltonians are solved using simulated annealing and genetic algorithms that are often unable to find the true global energy minimum and inherently cannot prove the optimality of their result, our paper opens the door to resolving longstanding uncertainties in lattice models of physical phenomena. An implementation of the algorithm is available at https://github.com/dkitch/maxsat-isingAdvances in optical sensing of explosive vapoursGillanders, Ross NeilSamuel, Ifor David WilliamTurnbull, Graham AlexanderCampbell, Iain AngusGlackin, James Michael Edwardhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128562018-03-11T00:34:02Z2018-01-25T00:00:00ZOptical techniques for the detection of explosives are receiving increasing interest due to potentially fast responding, highly-sensitive systems. Conjugated polymers are suitable probe materials for this application since their fluorescence is quenched by electronegative materials including explosives. This can be used to make a sensor for explosive vapour, which can then give chemical information to help identify explosive devices, and complements other approaches such as metal detectors and ground penetrating radar. Whilst the principle has been known for some time, its practical implementation requires considerable development of instrumentation and materials, including preconcentration materials. This paper reports our current efforts to address these challenges, with particular emphasis on humanitarian demining and looking towards application in Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detection.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme for research, technological development and demonstration under agreement no 284747, and the EPSRC under EP/K503940/1, EP/K503162/1, and EP/N509759/1. IDWS acknowledges a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award.
2018-01-25T00:00:00ZGillanders, Ross NeilSamuel, Ifor David WilliamTurnbull, Graham AlexanderCampbell, Iain AngusGlackin, James Michael EdwardOptical techniques for the detection of explosives are receiving increasing interest due to potentially fast responding, highly-sensitive systems. Conjugated polymers are suitable probe materials for this application since their fluorescence is quenched by electronegative materials including explosives. This can be used to make a sensor for explosive vapour, which can then give chemical information to help identify explosive devices, and complements other approaches such as metal detectors and ground penetrating radar. Whilst the principle has been known for some time, its practical implementation requires considerable development of instrumentation and materials, including preconcentration materials. This paper reports our current efforts to address these challenges, with particular emphasis on humanitarian demining and looking towards application in Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detection.The whistleblower’s dilemma in young children : when loyalty trumps other moral concernsMisch, AntoniaOver, HarrietCarpenter, Malindahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128552018-03-18T02:30:33Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZWhen a group engages in immoral behavior, group members face the whistleblower's dilemma: the conflict between remaining loyal to the group and standing up for other moral concerns. This study examines the developmental origins of this dilemma by investigating 5-year-olds' whistleblowing on their in- vs. outgroup members' moral transgression. Children (n = 96) watched puppets representing their ingroup vs. outgroup members commit either a mild or a severe transgression. After the mild transgression, children tattled on both groups equally often. After the severe transgression, however, they were significantly less likely to blow the whistle on their ingroup than on the outgroup. These results suggest that children have a strong tendency to act on their moral concerns, but can adjust their behavior according to their group's need: When much is at stake for the ingroup (i.e., after a severe moral transgression), children's behavior is more likely to be guided by loyalty.
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZMisch, AntoniaOver, HarrietCarpenter, MalindaWhen a group engages in immoral behavior, group members face the whistleblower's dilemma: the conflict between remaining loyal to the group and standing up for other moral concerns. This study examines the developmental origins of this dilemma by investigating 5-year-olds' whistleblowing on their in- vs. outgroup members' moral transgression. Children (n = 96) watched puppets representing their ingroup vs. outgroup members commit either a mild or a severe transgression. After the mild transgression, children tattled on both groups equally often. After the severe transgression, however, they were significantly less likely to blow the whistle on their ingroup than on the outgroup. These results suggest that children have a strong tendency to act on their moral concerns, but can adjust their behavior according to their group's need: When much is at stake for the ingroup (i.e., after a severe moral transgression), children's behavior is more likely to be guided by loyalty.Application of SQUIDs to low temperature and high magnetic field measurements—ultra low noise torque magnetometryArnold, F.Naumann, M.Lühmann, Th.Mackenzie, A. P.Hassinger, E.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128542018-03-07T00:15:33Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZTorque magnetometry is a key method to measure the magnetic anisotropy and quantum oscillations in metals. In order to resolve quantum oscillations in sub-millimeter sized samples, piezo-electric micro-cantilevers were introduced. In the case of strongly correlated metals with large Fermi surfaces and high cyclotron masses, magnetic torque resolving powers in excess of 104 are required at temperatures well below 1 K and magnetic fields beyond 10 T. Here, we present a new broadband read-out scheme for piezo-electric micro-cantilevers via Wheatstone-type resistance measurements in magnetic fields up to 15 T and temperatures down to 200 mK. By using a two-stage superconducting-quantum interference device as a null detector of a cold Wheatstone bridge, we were able to achieve a magnetic moment resolution of Δm = 4 × 10−15 J/T at maximal field and 700 mK, outperforming conventional magnetometers by at least one order of magnitude in this temperature and magnetic field range. Exemplary de Haas-van Alphen measurement of a newly grown delafossite, PdRhO2, was used to show the superior performance of our setup.
Authors thank the Max-Planck Society and Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, project “Fermi-surface topology and emergence of novel electronic states in strongly correlated electron systems,” for their financial support.
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZArnold, F.Naumann, M.Lühmann, Th.Mackenzie, A. P.Hassinger, E.Torque magnetometry is a key method to measure the magnetic anisotropy and quantum oscillations in metals. In order to resolve quantum oscillations in sub-millimeter sized samples, piezo-electric micro-cantilevers were introduced. In the case of strongly correlated metals with large Fermi surfaces and high cyclotron masses, magnetic torque resolving powers in excess of 104 are required at temperatures well below 1 K and magnetic fields beyond 10 T. Here, we present a new broadband read-out scheme for piezo-electric micro-cantilevers via Wheatstone-type resistance measurements in magnetic fields up to 15 T and temperatures down to 200 mK. By using a two-stage superconducting-quantum interference device as a null detector of a cold Wheatstone bridge, we were able to achieve a magnetic moment resolution of Δm = 4 × 10−15 J/T at maximal field and 700 mK, outperforming conventional magnetometers by at least one order of magnitude in this temperature and magnetic field range. Exemplary de Haas-van Alphen measurement of a newly grown delafossite, PdRhO2, was used to show the superior performance of our setup.Synchronous volcanic eruptions and abrupt climate change ~17.7k years ago plausibly linked by stratospheric ozone depletionMcConnell, Joseph R.Burke, AndreaDunbar, Nelia W.Köhler, PeterThomas, Jennie L.Arienzo, Monica M.Chellman, Nathan J.Maselli, Olivia J.Sigl, MichaelAdkins, Jess F.Baggenstos, DanielBurkhart, John F.Brook, Edward J.Buizert, ChristoCole-Dai, JihongFudge, T. J.Knorr, GregorGraf, Hans-F.Grieman, Mackenzie M.Iverson, NelsMcGwire, Kenneth C.Mulvaney, RobertParis, GuillaumeRhodes, Rachael H.Saltzman, Eric S.Severinghaus, Jeffrey P.Steffensen, Jørgen PederTaylor, Kendrick C.Winckler, Giselahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128532018-03-07T00:15:41Z2017-09-05T00:00:00ZGlacial-state greenhouse gas concentrations and Southern Hemisphere climate conditions persisted until ∼17.7 ka, when a nearly synchronous acceleration in deglaciation was recorded in paleoclimate proxies in large parts of the Southern Hemisphere, with many changes ascribed to a sudden poleward shift in the Southern Hemisphere westerlies and subsequent climate impacts. We used high-resolution chemical measurements in the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide, Byrd, and other ice cores to document a unique, ∼192-y series of halogen-rich volcanic eruptions exactly at the start of accelerated deglaciation, with tephra identifying the nearby Mount Takahe volcano as the source. Extensive fallout from these massive eruptions has been found >2,800 km from Mount Takahe. Sulfur isotope anomalies and marked decreases in ice core bromine consistent with increased surface UV radiation indicate that the eruptions led to stratospheric ozone depletion. Rather than a highly improbable coincidence, circulation and climate changes extending from the Antarctic Peninsula to the subtropics—similar to those associated with modern stratospheric ozone depletion over Antarctica—plausibly link the Mount Takahe eruptions to the onset of accelerated Southern Hemisphere deglaciation ∼17.7 ka.
The US National Science Foundation supported this work [Grants 0538427, 0839093, and 1142166 (to J.R.M.); 1043518 (to E.J.B.); 0538657 and 1043421 (to J.P. Severinghaus); 0538553 and 0839066 (to J.C.-D.); and 0944348, 0944191, 0440817, 0440819, and 0230396 (to K.C.T.)]. We thank the WAIS Divide Science Coordination Office and other support organizations. P.K. and G.K. were funded by Polar Regions and Coasts in a Changing Earth System-II, with additional support from the Helmholtz Climate Initiative. The data reported in this work have been deposited with the U.S. Antarctic Program Data Center, www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601008.
2017-09-05T00:00:00ZMcConnell, Joseph R.Burke, AndreaDunbar, Nelia W.Köhler, PeterThomas, Jennie L.Arienzo, Monica M.Chellman, Nathan J.Maselli, Olivia J.Sigl, MichaelAdkins, Jess F.Baggenstos, DanielBurkhart, John F.Brook, Edward J.Buizert, ChristoCole-Dai, JihongFudge, T. J.Knorr, GregorGraf, Hans-F.Grieman, Mackenzie M.Iverson, NelsMcGwire, Kenneth C.Mulvaney, RobertParis, GuillaumeRhodes, Rachael H.Saltzman, Eric S.Severinghaus, Jeffrey P.Steffensen, Jørgen PederTaylor, Kendrick C.Winckler, GiselaGlacial-state greenhouse gas concentrations and Southern Hemisphere climate conditions persisted until ∼17.7 ka, when a nearly synchronous acceleration in deglaciation was recorded in paleoclimate proxies in large parts of the Southern Hemisphere, with many changes ascribed to a sudden poleward shift in the Southern Hemisphere westerlies and subsequent climate impacts. We used high-resolution chemical measurements in the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide, Byrd, and other ice cores to document a unique, ∼192-y series of halogen-rich volcanic eruptions exactly at the start of accelerated deglaciation, with tephra identifying the nearby Mount Takahe volcano as the source. Extensive fallout from these massive eruptions has been found >2,800 km from Mount Takahe. Sulfur isotope anomalies and marked decreases in ice core bromine consistent with increased surface UV radiation indicate that the eruptions led to stratospheric ozone depletion. Rather than a highly improbable coincidence, circulation and climate changes extending from the Antarctic Peninsula to the subtropics—similar to those associated with modern stratospheric ozone depletion over Antarctica—plausibly link the Mount Takahe eruptions to the onset of accelerated Southern Hemisphere deglaciation ∼17.7 ka.Construction of ground-state preserving sparse lattice models for predictive materials simulationsHuang, WenxuanUrban, AlexanderRong, ZiqinDing, ZhiweiLuo, ChuanCeder, Gerbrandhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128522018-03-09T11:30:08Z2017-12-01T00:00:00ZFirst-principles based cluster expansion models are the dominant approach in ab initio thermodynamics of crystalline mixtures enabling the prediction of phase diagrams and novel ground states. However, despite recent advances, the construction of accurate models still requires a careful and time-consuming manual parameter tuning process for ground-state preservation, since this property is not guaranteed by default. In this paper, we present a systematic and mathematically sound method to obtain cluster expansion models that are guaranteed to preserve the ground states of their reference data. The method builds on the recently introduced compressive sensing paradigm for cluster expansion and employs quadratic programming to impose constraints on the model parameters. The robustness of our methodology is illustrated for two lithium transition metal oxides with relevance for Li-ion battery cathodes, i.e., Li2x Fe2(1-x)O2 and Li2x Ti2(1-x)O2, for which the construction of cluster expansion models with compressive sensing alone has proven to be challenging. We demonstrate that our method not only guarantees ground-state preservation on the set of reference structures used for the model construction, but also show that out-of-sample ground-state preservation up to relatively large supercell size is achievable through a rapidly converging iterative refinement. This method provides a general tool for building robust, compressed and constrained physical models with predictive power.
This work was supported primarily by the US Department of Energy (DOE) under Contract No. DE-FG02-96ER45571.
2017-12-01T00:00:00ZHuang, WenxuanUrban, AlexanderRong, ZiqinDing, ZhiweiLuo, ChuanCeder, GerbrandFirst-principles based cluster expansion models are the dominant approach in ab initio thermodynamics of crystalline mixtures enabling the prediction of phase diagrams and novel ground states. However, despite recent advances, the construction of accurate models still requires a careful and time-consuming manual parameter tuning process for ground-state preservation, since this property is not guaranteed by default. In this paper, we present a systematic and mathematically sound method to obtain cluster expansion models that are guaranteed to preserve the ground states of their reference data. The method builds on the recently introduced compressive sensing paradigm for cluster expansion and employs quadratic programming to impose constraints on the model parameters. The robustness of our methodology is illustrated for two lithium transition metal oxides with relevance for Li-ion battery cathodes, i.e., Li2x Fe2(1-x)O2 and Li2x Ti2(1-x)O2, for which the construction of cluster expansion models with compressive sensing alone has proven to be challenging. We demonstrate that our method not only guarantees ground-state preservation on the set of reference structures used for the model construction, but also show that out-of-sample ground-state preservation up to relatively large supercell size is achievable through a rapidly converging iterative refinement. This method provides a general tool for building robust, compressed and constrained physical models with predictive power.Review of Heidegger's ConfessionsWolfe, Judithhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128512018-03-12T09:30:11Z2017-12-14T00:00:00Z2017-12-14T00:00:00ZWolfe, JudithFoundation Year 2 doctors’ reasons for leaving UK medicine : an in-depth analysis of decision-making using semistructured interviewsSmith, Samantha E.Tallentire, Victoria R.Pope, Lindsey M.Laidlaw, Anita H.Morrison, Jillhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128502018-03-18T02:30:24Z2018-03-02T00:00:00ZObjectives: To explore the reasons that doctors choose to leave UK medicine after their foundation year two posts. Setting : All four regions of Scotland. Participants: Foundation year two doctors (F2s) working throughout Scotland who were considering leaving UK medicine after foundation training were recruited on a volunteer basis. Maximum variation between participants was sought. Primary and secondary outcome measures: Semistructured interviews were coded using template analysis. Six perspectives, described by Feldman and Ng, were used as the initial coding template. The codes were then configured to form a framework that explores the interplay of factors influencing Foundation Year 2 (F2) doctors’ decisions to leave UK medicine. Results: Seventeen participants were interviewed. Six perspectives were explored. Structural influences (countrywide and worldwide issues) included visas, economic and political considerations, structure of healthcare systems and availability of junior doctor jobs worldwide. Organisational influences (the National Health Service (NHS) and other healthcare providers) included staffing and compensation policies, the working environment and the learning environment. Occupational influences (specific to being a junior doctor) comprised the junior doctor contract, role and workload, pursuit of career interests and the structure of training. Work group influences (relationships with colleagues) included support at work, task interdependence and use of locums. Personal life influences consisted of work-life balance, and support in resolving work-life conflict. The underlying theme of ‘taking a break’ recurred through multiple narratives. Conclusions: F2s give reasons similar to those given by any professional considering a change in their job. However, working within the NHS as an F2 doctor brought specific challenges, such as a need to make a choice of specialty within the F2 year, exposure to workplace bullying and difficulties in raising concerns. Despite these challenges, most F2s did not view their decision to leave as a permanent job change, but as a temporary break from their current working lives.
This work was funded by a Scottish Medical Education Research Consortium grant.
2018-03-02T00:00:00ZSmith, Samantha E.Tallentire, Victoria R.Pope, Lindsey M.Laidlaw, Anita H.Morrison, JillObjectives: To explore the reasons that doctors choose to leave UK medicine after their foundation year two posts. Setting : All four regions of Scotland. Participants: Foundation year two doctors (F2s) working throughout Scotland who were considering leaving UK medicine after foundation training were recruited on a volunteer basis. Maximum variation between participants was sought. Primary and secondary outcome measures: Semistructured interviews were coded using template analysis. Six perspectives, described by Feldman and Ng, were used as the initial coding template. The codes were then configured to form a framework that explores the interplay of factors influencing Foundation Year 2 (F2) doctors’ decisions to leave UK medicine. Results: Seventeen participants were interviewed. Six perspectives were explored. Structural influences (countrywide and worldwide issues) included visas, economic and political considerations, structure of healthcare systems and availability of junior doctor jobs worldwide. Organisational influences (the National Health Service (NHS) and other healthcare providers) included staffing and compensation policies, the working environment and the learning environment. Occupational influences (specific to being a junior doctor) comprised the junior doctor contract, role and workload, pursuit of career interests and the structure of training. Work group influences (relationships with colleagues) included support at work, task interdependence and use of locums. Personal life influences consisted of work-life balance, and support in resolving work-life conflict. The underlying theme of ‘taking a break’ recurred through multiple narratives. Conclusions: F2s give reasons similar to those given by any professional considering a change in their job. However, working within the NHS as an F2 doctor brought specific challenges, such as a need to make a choice of specialty within the F2 year, exposure to workplace bullying and difficulties in raising concerns. Despite these challenges, most F2s did not view their decision to leave as a permanent job change, but as a temporary break from their current working lives.Пътища за никъде : Европейски политики за социално включване на ромитеMarushiakova-Popova, Elena AndreevnaPopov, Veselinhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128482018-03-06T00:15:36Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZПрез последните години “ромската тема” заема все по-голямо и водещо място в публичното пространство на обединена Европа и съответно ромските политики се оказват сериозно предизвикателство на национално и европейско равнище. Преди да бъдят анализирани обаче съвременните политически дискурси за интеграцията и социалното включване на ромите, задължително е необходимо да се познават добре съществуващите до този момент държавни политики към циганите от пристигането им в Европа през Средновековието до наши дни. Тъй като огромната част от ромите продължава да живее в страните от Източна Европа, от особена важност тук са политиките в държавите, включени след Втората световна война в т.нар. “социалистически лагер”. Анализът на съществуващите основни политически дискурси към циганите/ромите (и най-вече на резултатите от тях) трябва да бъде основата, от която трябва да се изхожда при анализа на съвремените национални и европейски дискурси на ромските политики. На тази основа могат да се обяснят постиженията и неудачите на тези политики, и да се прогнозират техните разултати (или липсата на такива).
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZMarushiakova-Popova, Elena AndreevnaPopov, VeselinПрез последните години “ромската тема” заема все по-голямо и водещо място в публичното пространство на обединена Европа и съответно ромските политики се оказват сериозно предизвикателство на национално и европейско равнище. Преди да бъдят анализирани обаче съвременните политически дискурси за интеграцията и социалното включване на ромите, задължително е необходимо да се познават добре съществуващите до този момент държавни политики към циганите от пристигането им в Европа през Средновековието до наши дни. Тъй като огромната част от ромите продължава да живее в страните от Източна Европа, от особена важност тук са политиките в държавите, включени след Втората световна война в т.нар. “социалистически лагер”. Анализът на съществуващите основни политически дискурси към циганите/ромите (и най-вече на резултатите от тях) трябва да бъде основата, от която трябва да се изхожда при анализа на съвремените национални и европейски дискурси на ромските политики. На тази основа могат да се обяснят постиженията и неудачите на тези политики, и да се прогнозират техните разултати (или липсата на такива).Economic reasons for not wanting a second child : changes before and after the onset of the economic recession in ItalyFiori, FrancescaGraham, ElspethRinesi, Francescahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128472018-03-13T11:30:06Z2018-03-02T00:00:00ZObjective : This study aims to understand changes in the fertility intentions of mothers residing in Italy before and after the onset of the economic recession. It focuses particularly on mothers with one child – a group whose intentions changed over the period – and especially on those who, before and after the economic crisis of 2007–2008, cite economic reasons for intending not to have a second child. Methods : The analysis uses data from the ISTAT sample survey on births and mothers and fits logistic regressions (for 2002 and 2012), with economic vs. other reasons for intending not to have a second child as the dependent variable, in order to compare the associated sociodemographic profiles of mothers for the two years. Results : In Italy, between 2002 and 2012, the fertility intentions of mothers with one child changed. The proportion intending to ‘stop at one’ increased, with more mothers giving economic constraints rather than personal preferences as their main reason for intending not to have another child. Moreover, socioeconomic differences among primiparous mothers reporting economic constraints as their main reason for intending not to have a second child narrowed, whereas age differences became more pronounced. Contribution : The study is one of the few that has examined the reasons behind fertility intentions, especially those of mothers intending not to have a second child. It shows that one important impact of the economic recession in Italy is that a greater proportion of primiparous mothers are now abandoning the two-child norm in response to adverse economic circumstances. As a consequence, Italy is likely to remain a low-fertility country for some time to come.
2018-03-02T00:00:00ZFiori, FrancescaGraham, ElspethRinesi, FrancescaObjective : This study aims to understand changes in the fertility intentions of mothers residing in Italy before and after the onset of the economic recession. It focuses particularly on mothers with one child – a group whose intentions changed over the period – and especially on those who, before and after the economic crisis of 2007–2008, cite economic reasons for intending not to have a second child. Methods : The analysis uses data from the ISTAT sample survey on births and mothers and fits logistic regressions (for 2002 and 2012), with economic vs. other reasons for intending not to have a second child as the dependent variable, in order to compare the associated sociodemographic profiles of mothers for the two years. Results : In Italy, between 2002 and 2012, the fertility intentions of mothers with one child changed. The proportion intending to ‘stop at one’ increased, with more mothers giving economic constraints rather than personal preferences as their main reason for intending not to have another child. Moreover, socioeconomic differences among primiparous mothers reporting economic constraints as their main reason for intending not to have a second child narrowed, whereas age differences became more pronounced. Contribution : The study is one of the few that has examined the reasons behind fertility intentions, especially those of mothers intending not to have a second child. It shows that one important impact of the economic recession in Italy is that a greater proportion of primiparous mothers are now abandoning the two-child norm in response to adverse economic circumstances. As a consequence, Italy is likely to remain a low-fertility country for some time to come.Split-grain 40Ar/39Ar dating : integrating temporal and geochemical data from crystal cargoesEllis, B. S.Mark, D. F.Troch, J.Bachmann, O.Guillong, M.Kent, A. J. R.von Quadt, A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128462018-03-05T00:15:36Z2017-05-10T00:00:00ZLarge sanidine crystals from the Mesa Falls Tuff (MFT), Yellowstone volcanic field, have been split and individually dated via high-precision 40Ar/39Ar geochronology with the undated portions further analysed for major elements, trace elements, Pb and Sr isotopes in the sanidine and trace elements in the melt inclusions. This allows the geochemical and geochronological identity of an individual sanidine to be combined. Our MFT sanidines return a preferred eruption age of 1.3011 ± 0.0015/0.0016 Ma (2-sigma, n = 56, MSWD 0.8, analytical/full external) with a significant component of subtly older (up to ~ 2 Ma) crystals. Combined with recent results (Rivera et al., 2016, Journal of Petrology 57, 9, 1677–1704) our data define a global mean sanidine 40Ar/39Ar age for the MFT of 1.3022 ± 0.0006/0.0008 Ma (2 sigma, analytical/full external) relative to Alder Creek sanidine at 1.1891 Ma and total λ40Ar 5.5305e-10, which gives RACsMFT: 1.09542 ± 0.00050. The ability to couple geochemistry and geochronology from a single grain allows us, for the first time, to evaluate the origin of the subtly older sanidines present in the same pumices as juvenile sanidines. Melt inclusions from all Mesa Falls sanidines represent extremely fractionated melts with low Sr contents (max. 12 ppm, n = 39), and rare earth element patterns which require that they be formed from an A-type magma rather than the preceding subduction-related Eocene volcanism as previously suggested. 87Sr/86Sr from juvenile and subtly older sanidines shows the same range of 0.7073 to 0.7096, illustrating the susceptibility of such low-Sr melts to slight degrees of assimilation. Pb isotopic compositions are more restricted and identical between the juvenile and subtly older sanidines in the Mesa Falls Tuff (207Pb/206Pb 0.900–0.903, 208Pb/206Pb 2.217–2.226, n = 83) and these compositions rule out the underlying Huckleberry Ridge Tuff member B as a potential source for the subtly older sanidine. LA-ICPMS 206Pb/238U dating of Mesa Falls zircons supports no role for the Huckleberry Ridge Tuff. Rather, these subtly older sanidines are interpreted as containing excess mantle-derived Ar. The ability to couple the geochemical and geochronological records within individual sanidine crystals that we demonstrate here has potential to provide new insights for a variety of petrological studies such as diffusional modelling.
NERC is acknowledged for continued funding of AIF at SUERC, East Kilbride. This work was supported by an ETH research grant (ETH-05 13-2) and funds from Swiss National Science Foundation research grants (SNSF 200021-146268 and SNSF 200021-155923/1) and US National Science Grant 1425491.
2017-05-10T00:00:00ZEllis, B. S.Mark, D. F.Troch, J.Bachmann, O.Guillong, M.Kent, A. J. R.von Quadt, A.Large sanidine crystals from the Mesa Falls Tuff (MFT), Yellowstone volcanic field, have been split and individually dated via high-precision 40Ar/39Ar geochronology with the undated portions further analysed for major elements, trace elements, Pb and Sr isotopes in the sanidine and trace elements in the melt inclusions. This allows the geochemical and geochronological identity of an individual sanidine to be combined. Our MFT sanidines return a preferred eruption age of 1.3011 ± 0.0015/0.0016 Ma (2-sigma, n = 56, MSWD 0.8, analytical/full external) with a significant component of subtly older (up to ~ 2 Ma) crystals. Combined with recent results (Rivera et al., 2016, Journal of Petrology 57, 9, 1677–1704) our data define a global mean sanidine 40Ar/39Ar age for the MFT of 1.3022 ± 0.0006/0.0008 Ma (2 sigma, analytical/full external) relative to Alder Creek sanidine at 1.1891 Ma and total λ40Ar 5.5305e-10, which gives RACsMFT: 1.09542 ± 0.00050. The ability to couple geochemistry and geochronology from a single grain allows us, for the first time, to evaluate the origin of the subtly older sanidines present in the same pumices as juvenile sanidines. Melt inclusions from all Mesa Falls sanidines represent extremely fractionated melts with low Sr contents (max. 12 ppm, n = 39), and rare earth element patterns which require that they be formed from an A-type magma rather than the preceding subduction-related Eocene volcanism as previously suggested. 87Sr/86Sr from juvenile and subtly older sanidines shows the same range of 0.7073 to 0.7096, illustrating the susceptibility of such low-Sr melts to slight degrees of assimilation. Pb isotopic compositions are more restricted and identical between the juvenile and subtly older sanidines in the Mesa Falls Tuff (207Pb/206Pb 0.900–0.903, 208Pb/206Pb 2.217–2.226, n = 83) and these compositions rule out the underlying Huckleberry Ridge Tuff member B as a potential source for the subtly older sanidine. LA-ICPMS 206Pb/238U dating of Mesa Falls zircons supports no role for the Huckleberry Ridge Tuff. Rather, these subtly older sanidines are interpreted as containing excess mantle-derived Ar. The ability to couple the geochemical and geochronological records within individual sanidine crystals that we demonstrate here has potential to provide new insights for a variety of petrological studies such as diffusional modelling.Neurobiology and neuropharmacology of monoaminergic systemsDeurwaerdère, PhilippeRamsay, Rona R.Di Giovanni, Giuseppehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128452018-03-05T00:15:31Z2017-04-01T00:00:00ZThis Special Issue, and the collaboration among the researchers that contributed to it, was initiated by EU COST Action CM1103 “Structure-based drug design for diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases: dissecting and modulating complex function in the monoaminergic systems of the brain”.
2017-04-01T00:00:00ZDeurwaerdère, PhilippeRamsay, Rona R.Di Giovanni, GiuseppeTransmission electron microscopy analysis of some transition metal compounds for energy storage and conversionLiang, ChaolunWang, FuxinFan, WenjieZhou, WuzongTong, Yexianghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128442018-03-04T00:15:39Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZRecently, transition metal compounds (TMCs) have been employed as high-performance electrode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs) owing to their high specific capacities, high electrical conductivity, and high chemical and thermal stability. While the characterization of electrochemical properties of TMC anodes is well developed, new challenges arise in understanding the structure-property relationships. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a powerful tool for studying microstructural characteristics. With TEM and related techniques, fundamental understanding of how the microstructures affect the properties of the TMC nanostructured anodes can be improved. In this article, the application of TEM in characterization of some typical TMC anode materials optimized through structural engineering, elemental doping, surface modification, defect-control engineering, morphological control, etc. is reviewed. Emphasis is given on analyzing the microstructures, including surface structures, various defects, local chemical compositions and valence states of transition metals, aimed at illustrating a structure-property relationship. The contribution and future development of the TEM techniques to elucidation of the electrochemical properties of the TMC anodes are highlighted.
This work was preliminarily supported by the National Key Research Program of China (2016YFA0202604), the Natural Science Foundation of China (21476271), NSFC-RGC (21461162003) and Natural Science Foundation (2014KTSCX004 and 2014A030308012) of Guangdong Province, China.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZLiang, ChaolunWang, FuxinFan, WenjieZhou, WuzongTong, YexiangRecently, transition metal compounds (TMCs) have been employed as high-performance electrode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs) owing to their high specific capacities, high electrical conductivity, and high chemical and thermal stability. While the characterization of electrochemical properties of TMC anodes is well developed, new challenges arise in understanding the structure-property relationships. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a powerful tool for studying microstructural characteristics. With TEM and related techniques, fundamental understanding of how the microstructures affect the properties of the TMC nanostructured anodes can be improved. In this article, the application of TEM in characterization of some typical TMC anode materials optimized through structural engineering, elemental doping, surface modification, defect-control engineering, morphological control, etc. is reviewed. Emphasis is given on analyzing the microstructures, including surface structures, various defects, local chemical compositions and valence states of transition metals, aimed at illustrating a structure-property relationship. The contribution and future development of the TEM techniques to elucidation of the electrochemical properties of the TMC anodes are highlighted.Intrinsic dead layer effects in relaxed epitaxial BaTiO3 thin film grown by pulsed laser depositionGagou, Y.Belhadi, J.Asbani, B.El Marssi, M.Dellis, J-LYuzyuk, Yu. I.Raevski, I. P.Scott, J. Fhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128432018-03-04T00:15:36Z2017-03-02T00:00:00ZEpitaxial BaTiO3 (BT) thin film of about 400 nm thickness was grown on LaSr0.5Co0.5O3 (LSCO) coated (001)MgO using pulsed laser deposition. Ferroelectric properties of the BT thin film in Pt/BT/LSCO/MgO heterostructure capacitor configuration were investigated. Dynamic P-E hysteresis loops at room temperature showed ferroelectric behavior with Ps = 32 μC/cm2, Pr = 14 μC/cm2 and EC = 65 kV/cm. Static C-V measurements confirmed reversible switching with a coercive field EC = 15 kV/cm. Basing on a model taking into account an interface dead-layer we show that the capacitance-voltage “butterfly” loops imply only 25% switching of dipoles that inferred from dynamic polarization-field loops (~ 4 and ~ 16 kV/cm, respectively). Dielectric permittivity as a function of temperature revealed a first-order ferroelectric-to-paraelectric (FE-PE) phase transition in the BT film characterized by a maximum at TC ~ 130 °C. The very large (~ 126 K at 1 kHz) difference between TC and the extrapolated Curie-Weiss temperature T0 is attributed to the dead-layer effects.
MEM acknowledges a support from the Region of Haut de France and IPR the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation (research project 3.1649.2017/PP).
2017-03-02T00:00:00ZGagou, Y.Belhadi, J.Asbani, B.El Marssi, M.Dellis, J-LYuzyuk, Yu. I.Raevski, I. P.Scott, J. FEpitaxial BaTiO3 (BT) thin film of about 400 nm thickness was grown on LaSr0.5Co0.5O3 (LSCO) coated (001)MgO using pulsed laser deposition. Ferroelectric properties of the BT thin film in Pt/BT/LSCO/MgO heterostructure capacitor configuration were investigated. Dynamic P-E hysteresis loops at room temperature showed ferroelectric behavior with Ps = 32 μC/cm2, Pr = 14 μC/cm2 and EC = 65 kV/cm. Static C-V measurements confirmed reversible switching with a coercive field EC = 15 kV/cm. Basing on a model taking into account an interface dead-layer we show that the capacitance-voltage “butterfly” loops imply only 25% switching of dipoles that inferred from dynamic polarization-field loops (~ 4 and ~ 16 kV/cm, respectively). Dielectric permittivity as a function of temperature revealed a first-order ferroelectric-to-paraelectric (FE-PE) phase transition in the BT film characterized by a maximum at TC ~ 130 °C. The very large (~ 126 K at 1 kHz) difference between TC and the extrapolated Curie-Weiss temperature T0 is attributed to the dead-layer effects.Constraining magma storage conditions using phase equilibria models at a restless volcano in the Main Ethiopian RiftGleeson, Matthew L. M.Stock, Michael J.Pyle, David M.Mather, Tamsin A.Hutchison, WilliamYirgu, Gezahegnhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128422018-03-18T01:39:14Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZThe Main Ethiopian Rift hosts a number of peralkaline volcanic centres, with many showing signs of recent unrest. Due, in part, to the low number of historical eruptions recorded in the region, volcanism in the Main Ethiopian Rift remains understudied relative to other volcanic settings and conditions of magma storage remain almost entirely unknown. Aluto is one of these restless caldera systems and identifying magma storage conditions is vital for evaluating the risks posed by recent periods of unrest. In this study, we ran ~ 150 fractional crystallisation models, using the Rhyolite-MELTS thermodynamic software, within the range P = 50–300 MPa, starting H2O = 0.5–3 wt% and fO2 = QFM-2 − QFM + 1. This represents a realistic range of potential magma storage conditions at Aluto. We assessed the fractionation trends produced using two different starting compositions, which represent different estimates of the parental melt feeding the system. The predicted liquid lines of descent produced by these models are compared with Aluto whole-rock data from the literature, and are presented along with new observations of the natural phase assemblage and erupted mineral compositions to provide information on the magma storage conditions. Using a new, quantitative statistical approach to compare empirical data and thermodynamic model-outputs, we find that the compositions of evolved peralkaline rhyolites from Aluto are best reproduced by isobaric fractional crystallisation from a rift-related basaltic composition, without the need for significant crustal assimilation. Around 90% protracted fractional crystallisation is required to produce these compositions. This indicates that the magmatic system is likely to exist as a highly crystalline mush. The best agreement between models and natural samples is at low pressures (150 MPa), low initial H2O concentrations (0.5 wt%) and relatively high oxygen fugacity (QFM). The depth of magma storage derived from these results (~ 5.6 ± 1 km) agrees well with the source depths modelled from measured ground deformation at Aluto in 2008. Data from other peralkaline volcanic centres in the Main Ethiopian Rift, such as Boset and Gedemsa, and at other locations globally (e.g. Pantelleria, Italy) suggest that these storage conditions are a common feature of many peralkaline volcanic centres. Our data is consistent with the formation of a Daly Gap at Aluto due to compositional stratification of the magma reservoir beneath the caldera, and the non-linear relationship between temperature and SiO2 concentration during magmatic differentiation.
This work is a contribution to the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) funded RiftVolc project (NE/L013932/1, Rift volcanism: past, present, and future). W.H., T.A.M., and D.M.P. are supported by and contribute to the NERC Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tectonics (COMET). W.H. M.J.S. were supported by a NERC studentships NE/J5000045/1 and NE/K500811/01 respectively.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZGleeson, Matthew L. M.Stock, Michael J.Pyle, David M.Mather, Tamsin A.Hutchison, WilliamYirgu, GezahegnThe Main Ethiopian Rift hosts a number of peralkaline volcanic centres, with many showing signs of recent unrest. Due, in part, to the low number of historical eruptions recorded in the region, volcanism in the Main Ethiopian Rift remains understudied relative to other volcanic settings and conditions of magma storage remain almost entirely unknown. Aluto is one of these restless caldera systems and identifying magma storage conditions is vital for evaluating the risks posed by recent periods of unrest. In this study, we ran ~ 150 fractional crystallisation models, using the Rhyolite-MELTS thermodynamic software, within the range P = 50–300 MPa, starting H2O = 0.5–3 wt% and fO2 = QFM-2 − QFM + 1. This represents a realistic range of potential magma storage conditions at Aluto. We assessed the fractionation trends produced using two different starting compositions, which represent different estimates of the parental melt feeding the system. The predicted liquid lines of descent produced by these models are compared with Aluto whole-rock data from the literature, and are presented along with new observations of the natural phase assemblage and erupted mineral compositions to provide information on the magma storage conditions. Using a new, quantitative statistical approach to compare empirical data and thermodynamic model-outputs, we find that the compositions of evolved peralkaline rhyolites from Aluto are best reproduced by isobaric fractional crystallisation from a rift-related basaltic composition, without the need for significant crustal assimilation. Around 90% protracted fractional crystallisation is required to produce these compositions. This indicates that the magmatic system is likely to exist as a highly crystalline mush. The best agreement between models and natural samples is at low pressures (150 MPa), low initial H2O concentrations (0.5 wt%) and relatively high oxygen fugacity (QFM). The depth of magma storage derived from these results (~ 5.6 ± 1 km) agrees well with the source depths modelled from measured ground deformation at Aluto in 2008. Data from other peralkaline volcanic centres in the Main Ethiopian Rift, such as Boset and Gedemsa, and at other locations globally (e.g. Pantelleria, Italy) suggest that these storage conditions are a common feature of many peralkaline volcanic centres. Our data is consistent with the formation of a Daly Gap at Aluto due to compositional stratification of the magma reservoir beneath the caldera, and the non-linear relationship between temperature and SiO2 concentration during magmatic differentiation.Discomfiture in time; and the future as birthrightRapport, Nigel Julianhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128412018-03-04T00:15:32Z2017-01-01T00:00:00Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZRapport, Nigel JulianThe cycle polynomial of a permutation groupCameron, Peter J.Semeraro, Jasonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128402018-03-04T02:30:58Z2018-01-25T00:00:00ZThe cycle polynomial of a finite permutation group G is the generating function for the number of elements of G with a given number of cycles.In the first part of the paper, we develop basic properties of this polynomial, and give a number of examples. In the 1970s, Richard Stanley introduced the notion of reciprocity for pairs of combinatorial polynomials. We show that, in a considerable number of cases, there is a polynomial in the reciprocal relation to the cycle polynomial of G; this is the orbital chromatic polynomial of Γ and G, where Γ is a G-invariant graph, introduced by the first author, Jackson and Rudd. We pose the general problem of finding all such reciprocal pairs, and give a number of examples and characterisations: the latter include the cases where Γ is a complete or null graph or a tree. The paper concludes with some comments on other polynomials associated with a permutation group.
2018-01-25T00:00:00ZCameron, Peter J.Semeraro, JasonThe cycle polynomial of a finite permutation group G is the generating function for the number of elements of G with a given number of cycles.In the first part of the paper, we develop basic properties of this polynomial, and give a number of examples. In the 1970s, Richard Stanley introduced the notion of reciprocity for pairs of combinatorial polynomials. We show that, in a considerable number of cases, there is a polynomial in the reciprocal relation to the cycle polynomial of G; this is the orbital chromatic polynomial of Γ and G, where Γ is a G-invariant graph, introduced by the first author, Jackson and Rudd. We pose the general problem of finding all such reciprocal pairs, and give a number of examples and characterisations: the latter include the cases where Γ is a complete or null graph or a tree. The paper concludes with some comments on other polynomials associated with a permutation group.Care of the infant and newborn in Malawi (2017) : the COIN Course - Participants ManualKawaza, KondwaniMzikamanda, RizineMolyneux, Lizhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128392018-03-05T09:30:11Z2016-12-01T00:00:00ZThe majority of deaths in neonates and young infants can be prevented with low-cost interventions. It has been estimated that we can reduce up to half of all preventable neonatal deaths, with optimal treatment of neonatal illness. In addition to providing care to newborns at birth, a district health facility also receives sick young infants with diverse clinical presentations, some of whom are extremely sick and need emergency treatments. This course will deal with the care of newborns at birth, the first few days of life and sick young infants who are likely to be encountered in a secondary level health facility. There is a lot of overlap between the clinical presentation and the management of conditions in the neonate and the young infant (defined as an infant less than two months of age). In this manual, when referring to both age groups we will discuss as the Neonate and Young Infant (NYI). The young infant who requires resuscitation may well be a neonate who is only a few days old. The approach to initial resuscitation is very slightly different between the neonate and young infant but the skills required are the same and you will practice these during this course. This manual is for the candidate participating in a training on the Care of the Young Infant and Newborn (COIN). This manual is supported by course material including lectures, videos, drills and scenarios. The training is targeted at nurses, clinicians and medical assistants and will be useful for any nursing and clinical staff looking after newborns and young infants in health facilities. The course provides an evidence base where available and usual practice where there is no evidence. We have tried to strike the right balance between the best and most pragmatic practice for our setting as well as incorporated current evidence. There are grey areas in medicine and despite the latest evidence, there may be no right answer. In this course, we have tried to give the candidate a clear direction in a given situation. However, these are guidelines and if there is a good clinical reason to deviate from them, then that is also good clinical practice. If unclear about the management of an NYI, the next step is to consult a colleague at your facility or to discuss with colleagues from your central hospital. At the back of the manual, there are wall charts or job aids – intended for printing and placing in all clinical areas where NYI are cared for including the clinic, the ward and the nursery. On the last day of the COIN course, there is an examination which includes an MCQ to test knowledge, a competency based assessment which tests skills. Attitude includes attendance and participation and this is assessed throughout the course.
2016-12-01T00:00:00ZKawaza, KondwaniMzikamanda, RizineMolyneux, LizThe majority of deaths in neonates and young infants can be prevented with low-cost interventions. It has been estimated that we can reduce up to half of all preventable neonatal deaths, with optimal treatment of neonatal illness. In addition to providing care to newborns at birth, a district health facility also receives sick young infants with diverse clinical presentations, some of whom are extremely sick and need emergency treatments. This course will deal with the care of newborns at birth, the first few days of life and sick young infants who are likely to be encountered in a secondary level health facility. There is a lot of overlap between the clinical presentation and the management of conditions in the neonate and the young infant (defined as an infant less than two months of age). In this manual, when referring to both age groups we will discuss as the Neonate and Young Infant (NYI). The young infant who requires resuscitation may well be a neonate who is only a few days old. The approach to initial resuscitation is very slightly different between the neonate and young infant but the skills required are the same and you will practice these during this course. This manual is for the candidate participating in a training on the Care of the Young Infant and Newborn (COIN). This manual is supported by course material including lectures, videos, drills and scenarios. The training is targeted at nurses, clinicians and medical assistants and will be useful for any nursing and clinical staff looking after newborns and young infants in health facilities. The course provides an evidence base where available and usual practice where there is no evidence. We have tried to strike the right balance between the best and most pragmatic practice for our setting as well as incorporated current evidence. There are grey areas in medicine and despite the latest evidence, there may be no right answer. In this course, we have tried to give the candidate a clear direction in a given situation. However, these are guidelines and if there is a good clinical reason to deviate from them, then that is also good clinical practice. If unclear about the management of an NYI, the next step is to consult a colleague at your facility or to discuss with colleagues from your central hospital. At the back of the manual, there are wall charts or job aids – intended for printing and placing in all clinical areas where NYI are cared for including the clinic, the ward and the nursery. On the last day of the COIN course, there is an examination which includes an MCQ to test knowledge, a competency based assessment which tests skills. Attitude includes attendance and participation and this is assessed throughout the course.Echoes of Aldrovandi: : notes on an illustrated album from the Natural History Museum in LondonMarcaida Lopez, Jose Ramonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128382018-03-09T17:30:07Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZThis work focuses on an early modern album of bird illustrations currently held at the Natural History Museum in London: Raccolta di Uccelli fatta da Giovanni da Udine Scolare di Raffaelle Sanzio da Urbino (88 f B). Particular attention is paid to the case of two colour illustrations of the bird of paradise, modelled after two printed images published by Ulisse Aldrovandi in his Ornithologiae (1599). The aim is to discuss the status of this type of albums –beautifully-illustrated and often-anonymous compilations of naturalist imagery– as source-materials for the scholar of early modern culture. What are the main challenges of studying such objects and their content? What do these sources reveal about the interactions between naturalists, image-makers and collectors in the early modern period? What can we learn from them in relation to processes like the circulation of images, the production of copies and the accumulation and display of natural knowledge?
The research leading to this publication has received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)/ERC grant agreement no 617391.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZMarcaida Lopez, Jose RamonThis work focuses on an early modern album of bird illustrations currently held at the Natural History Museum in London: Raccolta di Uccelli fatta da Giovanni da Udine Scolare di Raffaelle Sanzio da Urbino (88 f B). Particular attention is paid to the case of two colour illustrations of the bird of paradise, modelled after two printed images published by Ulisse Aldrovandi in his Ornithologiae (1599). The aim is to discuss the status of this type of albums –beautifully-illustrated and often-anonymous compilations of naturalist imagery– as source-materials for the scholar of early modern culture. What are the main challenges of studying such objects and their content? What do these sources reveal about the interactions between naturalists, image-makers and collectors in the early modern period? What can we learn from them in relation to processes like the circulation of images, the production of copies and the accumulation and display of natural knowledge?The Carolingian past in post-Carolingian EuropeMacLean, Simonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128372018-03-03T00:15:32Z2016-03-01T00:00:00Z2016-03-01T00:00:00ZMacLean, SimonDiscrimination of male black-capped chickadee songs : relationship between acoustic preference and performance accuracyHahn, Allison H.Guillette, Lauren MaryHoeschele, MarisaOtter, Kenneth A.Ratcliffe, Laurene M.Sturdy, Christopher B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128362018-03-03T00:15:32Z2017-04-01T00:00:00ZMany species form social groups with dominance hierarchies. Often, individuals possess a status signal that indicates dominance rank. Songbirds produce songs that are used to attract mates or repel rivals, and acoustic features within songs can also indicate an individual's quality, including dominance rank. Acoustic status signals have been reported in the songs of male black-capped chickadees, Poecile atricapillus, a nonmigratory North American songbird. Here we used two operant conditioning tasks to examine acoustic preference for and discrimination of conspecific songs produced by males varying in dominance rank. We used a choice preference task to examine birds' preferences for listening to dominant or subordinate songs and conducted an instrumental learning task to determine whether chickadees considered dominant and subordinate songs as belonging to separate signal categories based on acoustic features. Overall, our results provide little evidence that birds used open-ended categorization when discriminating, but there is evidence that songs from different geographical regions may contain acoustic similarity based on dominance rank. Consistent with previous song discrimination studies with black-capped chickadees, we found sex differences in discrimination abilities, with females learning the discrimination faster than males. We also found evidence that performance accuracy during the instrumental learning task correlates with acoustic song preference. Overall, these results suggest that when biologically relevant signals (e.g. male songs) are used as stimuli during a perceptual task, the birds' responses may be differentially affected based on individual differences among the subjects performing the task (including sex and underlying preference) and the salience associated with the stimuli (e.g. dominance rank of the singer).
2017-04-01T00:00:00ZHahn, Allison H.Guillette, Lauren MaryHoeschele, MarisaOtter, Kenneth A.Ratcliffe, Laurene M.Sturdy, Christopher B.Many species form social groups with dominance hierarchies. Often, individuals possess a status signal that indicates dominance rank. Songbirds produce songs that are used to attract mates or repel rivals, and acoustic features within songs can also indicate an individual's quality, including dominance rank. Acoustic status signals have been reported in the songs of male black-capped chickadees, Poecile atricapillus, a nonmigratory North American songbird. Here we used two operant conditioning tasks to examine acoustic preference for and discrimination of conspecific songs produced by males varying in dominance rank. We used a choice preference task to examine birds' preferences for listening to dominant or subordinate songs and conducted an instrumental learning task to determine whether chickadees considered dominant and subordinate songs as belonging to separate signal categories based on acoustic features. Overall, our results provide little evidence that birds used open-ended categorization when discriminating, but there is evidence that songs from different geographical regions may contain acoustic similarity based on dominance rank. Consistent with previous song discrimination studies with black-capped chickadees, we found sex differences in discrimination abilities, with females learning the discrimination faster than males. We also found evidence that performance accuracy during the instrumental learning task correlates with acoustic song preference. Overall, these results suggest that when biologically relevant signals (e.g. male songs) are used as stimuli during a perceptual task, the birds' responses may be differentially affected based on individual differences among the subjects performing the task (including sex and underlying preference) and the salience associated with the stimuli (e.g. dominance rank of the singer).Anoxic atmospheres on Mars driven by volcanism : implications for past environments and lifeSholes, Steven F.Smith, Megan L.Claire, Mark W.Zahnle, Kevin J.Catling, David C.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128352018-03-18T01:39:14Z2017-07-01T00:00:00ZMars today has no active volcanism and its atmosphere is oxidizing, dominated by the photochemistry of CO2 and H2O. Mars experienced widespread volcanism in the past and volcanic emissions should have included reducing gases, such as H2 and CO, as well as sulfur-bearing gases. Using a one-dimensional photochemical model, we consider whether plausible volcanic gas fluxes could have switched the redox-state of the past martian atmosphere to reducing conditions. In our model, the total quantity and proportions of volcanic gases depend on the water content, outgassing pressure, and oxygen fugacity of the source melt. We find that, with reasonable melt parameters, the past martian atmosphere (∼3.5 Gyr to present) could have easily reached reducing and anoxic conditions with modest levels of volcanism, >0.14 km3 yr−1, which are well within the range of estimates from thermal evolution models or photogeological studies. Counter-intuitively we also find that more reducing melts with lower oxygen fugacity require greater amounts of volcanism to switch a paleo-atmosphere from oxidizing to reducing. The reason is that sulfur is more stable in such melts and lower absolute fluxes of sulfur-bearing gases more than compensate for increases in the proportions of H2 and CO. These results imply that ancient Mars should have experienced periods with anoxic and reducing atmospheres even through the mid-Amazonian whenever volcanic outgassing was sustained at sufficient levels. Reducing anoxic conditions are potentially conducive to the synthesis of prebiotic organic compounds, such as amino acids, and are therefore relevant to the possibility of life on Mars. Also, anoxic reducing conditions should have influenced the type of minerals that were formed on the surface or deposited from the atmosphere. We suggest looking for elemental polysulfur (S8) as a signature of past reducing atmospheres. Finally, our models allow us to estimate the amount of volcanically sourced atmospheric sulfate deposited over Mars’ history, approximately ∼106-109 Tmol, with a spread depending on assumed outgassing rate history and magmatic source conditions.
This work was supported by NNX10AN67G grant from NASA's Mars Fundamental Research Program awarded to DCC.
2017-07-01T00:00:00ZSholes, Steven F.Smith, Megan L.Claire, Mark W.Zahnle, Kevin J.Catling, David C.Mars today has no active volcanism and its atmosphere is oxidizing, dominated by the photochemistry of CO2 and H2O. Mars experienced widespread volcanism in the past and volcanic emissions should have included reducing gases, such as H2 and CO, as well as sulfur-bearing gases. Using a one-dimensional photochemical model, we consider whether plausible volcanic gas fluxes could have switched the redox-state of the past martian atmosphere to reducing conditions. In our model, the total quantity and proportions of volcanic gases depend on the water content, outgassing pressure, and oxygen fugacity of the source melt. We find that, with reasonable melt parameters, the past martian atmosphere (∼3.5 Gyr to present) could have easily reached reducing and anoxic conditions with modest levels of volcanism, >0.14 km3 yr−1, which are well within the range of estimates from thermal evolution models or photogeological studies. Counter-intuitively we also find that more reducing melts with lower oxygen fugacity require greater amounts of volcanism to switch a paleo-atmosphere from oxidizing to reducing. The reason is that sulfur is more stable in such melts and lower absolute fluxes of sulfur-bearing gases more than compensate for increases in the proportions of H2 and CO. These results imply that ancient Mars should have experienced periods with anoxic and reducing atmospheres even through the mid-Amazonian whenever volcanic outgassing was sustained at sufficient levels. Reducing anoxic conditions are potentially conducive to the synthesis of prebiotic organic compounds, such as amino acids, and are therefore relevant to the possibility of life on Mars. Also, anoxic reducing conditions should have influenced the type of minerals that were formed on the surface or deposited from the atmosphere. We suggest looking for elemental polysulfur (S8) as a signature of past reducing atmospheres. Finally, our models allow us to estimate the amount of volcanically sourced atmospheric sulfate deposited over Mars’ history, approximately ∼106-109 Tmol, with a spread depending on assumed outgassing rate history and magmatic source conditions.“Dying out” : conversion and the complexity of neighbourliness on the Polish Belarussian borderJoyce, Aimeehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128342018-03-03T00:15:30Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZThis paper addresses the way that religious affiliation and conversion shape ongoing tensions over historical periods of exile, resettlement, exodus and elimination in a small town on the Eastern Polish border. I explore how local Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian’s negotiations of a troubled past are materialized and managed through narrating family histories of conversion, In particular, this paper focuses on the compromises that enable mixed faith marriages and the conflicts that emerge over the burial of religious converts. In these negotiations, members of both congregations deploy the local model of “neighbourliness” and the ideal of the borderlander, to greater and lesser success. Day-to-day the practice of considered neighbourliness helps local people to acknowledge and minimize religious and ethnic difference. However, conversion brings the realms of religion and relatedness into conjunction in a risky manner: marriage may offer an opportunity to enhance neighbourly connections, but burial is an event where the tensions over histories of conflict become apparent disrupting neighbourly relations and practices.
This work was supported by an Economic and Social Research Council PhD studentship grant and the Foundation Grant from Funds for Women Graduates.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZJoyce, AimeeThis paper addresses the way that religious affiliation and conversion shape ongoing tensions over historical periods of exile, resettlement, exodus and elimination in a small town on the Eastern Polish border. I explore how local Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian’s negotiations of a troubled past are materialized and managed through narrating family histories of conversion, In particular, this paper focuses on the compromises that enable mixed faith marriages and the conflicts that emerge over the burial of religious converts. In these negotiations, members of both congregations deploy the local model of “neighbourliness” and the ideal of the borderlander, to greater and lesser success. Day-to-day the practice of considered neighbourliness helps local people to acknowledge and minimize religious and ethnic difference. However, conversion brings the realms of religion and relatedness into conjunction in a risky manner: marriage may offer an opportunity to enhance neighbourly connections, but burial is an event where the tensions over histories of conflict become apparent disrupting neighbourly relations and practices.Temporal vertigo and time vortices on Greece’s Central PlainKnight, Daniel Martynhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128332018-03-03T00:15:24Z2016-03-01T00:00:00ZThe consequences of prolonged fiscal austerity have left people in Trikala, central Greece, with feelings of intense temporal vertigo: confusion and anxiety about where and when they belong in overarching timelines of pasts and futures. Some people report feeling ‘thrown back in time’ to past eras of poverty and suffering, while others discuss their experiences of the current crisis situation as reliving multiple moments of the past assembled in the present. This article analyses how locals understand their complex experiences of time and temporality, and promotes the accommodation of messy narratives of time that can otherwise leave the researcher feeling sea-sick.
2016-03-01T00:00:00ZKnight, Daniel MartynThe consequences of prolonged fiscal austerity have left people in Trikala, central Greece, with feelings of intense temporal vertigo: confusion and anxiety about where and when they belong in overarching timelines of pasts and futures. Some people report feeling ‘thrown back in time’ to past eras of poverty and suffering, while others discuss their experiences of the current crisis situation as reliving multiple moments of the past assembled in the present. This article analyses how locals understand their complex experiences of time and temporality, and promotes the accommodation of messy narratives of time that can otherwise leave the researcher feeling sea-sick.A lattice test for additive separabilityPolisson, Matthewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128322018-03-02T16:30:06Z2018-02-12T00:00:00ZWe derive necessary and sufficient conditions for a finite data set of price and demand observations to be consistent with an additively separable preference. We do so without imposing concavity on any of the subutility functions or convexity of the budget set a priori, thereby generalizing earlier results. Our simple and intuitive lattice test easily accommodates departures from rationality, or errors, which subsequently facilitates a rich empirical analysis. We apply our econometric techniques to the food consumption of a panel of British households. The primary empirical finding is that additive separability has considerable success in explaining the data.
The author gratefully acknowledges financial support from the European Research Council (ERC) under ERC-2009-AdG grant agreement number 249529.
2018-02-12T00:00:00ZPolisson, MatthewWe derive necessary and sufficient conditions for a finite data set of price and demand observations to be consistent with an additively separable preference. We do so without imposing concavity on any of the subutility functions or convexity of the budget set a priori, thereby generalizing earlier results. Our simple and intuitive lattice test easily accommodates departures from rationality, or errors, which subsequently facilitates a rich empirical analysis. We apply our econometric techniques to the food consumption of a panel of British households. The primary empirical finding is that additive separability has considerable success in explaining the data.Temporal estimation in prediction motion tasks is biased by a moving destinationFlavell, Jonathan C.Barrett, Brendan T.Buckley, John G.Harris, Julie M.Scally, Andrew J.Beebe, Nathan B.Cruickshank, Alice G.Bennett, Simon J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128312018-03-09T11:30:06Z2018-02-14T00:00:00ZAn ability to predict the time-to-contact (TTC) of moving objects that become momentarily hidden is advantageous in everyday life and could be particularly so in fast-ball sports. Prediction motion (PM) experiments have sought to test this ability using tasks where a disappearing target moves toward a stationary destination. Here, we developed two novel versions of the PM task in which the destination either moved away from (Chase) or toward (Attract) the moving target. The target and destination moved with different speeds such that collision occurred 750, 1,000 or 1,250 ms after target occlusion. To determine if domain-specific experience conveys an advantage in PM tasks, we compared the performance of different sporting groups ranging from internationally competing athletes to nonsporting controls. There was no difference in performance between sporting groups and non-sporting controls but there were significant and independent effects on response error by target speed, destination speed, and occlusion period. We simulated these findings using a revised version of the linear TTC model of response timing for PM tasks (Yakimoff, Bocheva, & Mitrania, 1987; Yakimoff, Mateeff, Ehrenstein, & Hohnsbein, 1993) in which retinal input from the moving destination biases the internal representation of the occluded target. This revision closely reproduced the observed patterns of response error and thus describes a means by which the brain might estimate TTC when the target and destination are in motion.
This study was funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (grant references BB/J018163/1, BB/J016365/1, and BB/J018872/1).
2018-02-14T00:00:00ZFlavell, Jonathan C.Barrett, Brendan T.Buckley, John G.Harris, Julie M.Scally, Andrew J.Beebe, Nathan B.Cruickshank, Alice G.Bennett, Simon J.An ability to predict the time-to-contact (TTC) of moving objects that become momentarily hidden is advantageous in everyday life and could be particularly so in fast-ball sports. Prediction motion (PM) experiments have sought to test this ability using tasks where a disappearing target moves toward a stationary destination. Here, we developed two novel versions of the PM task in which the destination either moved away from (Chase) or toward (Attract) the moving target. The target and destination moved with different speeds such that collision occurred 750, 1,000 or 1,250 ms after target occlusion. To determine if domain-specific experience conveys an advantage in PM tasks, we compared the performance of different sporting groups ranging from internationally competing athletes to nonsporting controls. There was no difference in performance between sporting groups and non-sporting controls but there were significant and independent effects on response error by target speed, destination speed, and occlusion period. We simulated these findings using a revised version of the linear TTC model of response timing for PM tasks (Yakimoff, Bocheva, & Mitrania, 1987; Yakimoff, Mateeff, Ehrenstein, & Hohnsbein, 1993) in which retinal input from the moving destination biases the internal representation of the occluded target. This revision closely reproduced the observed patterns of response error and thus describes a means by which the brain might estimate TTC when the target and destination are in motion.Thirty years of great ape gesturesTomasello, MichaelCall, Josephttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128302018-03-05T10:30:08Z2018-02-21T00:00:00ZWe and our colleagues have been doing studies of great ape gestural communication for more than 30 years. Here we attempt to spell out what we have learned. Some aspects of the process have been reliably established by multiple researchers, for example, its intentional structure and its sensitivity to the attentional state of the recipient. Other aspects are more controversial. We argue here that it is a mistake to assimilate great ape gestures to the species-typical displays of other mammals by claiming that they are fixed action patterns, as there are many differences, including the use of attention-getters. It is also a mistake, we argue, to assimilate great ape gestures to human gestures by claiming that they are used referentially and declaratively in a human-like manner, as apes’ “pointing” gesture has many limitations and they do not gesture iconically. Great ape gestures constitute a unique form of primate communication with their own unique qualities.
Open access funding provided by Max Planck Society.
2018-02-21T00:00:00ZTomasello, MichaelCall, JosepWe and our colleagues have been doing studies of great ape gestural communication for more than 30 years. Here we attempt to spell out what we have learned. Some aspects of the process have been reliably established by multiple researchers, for example, its intentional structure and its sensitivity to the attentional state of the recipient. Other aspects are more controversial. We argue here that it is a mistake to assimilate great ape gestures to the species-typical displays of other mammals by claiming that they are fixed action patterns, as there are many differences, including the use of attention-getters. It is also a mistake, we argue, to assimilate great ape gestures to human gestures by claiming that they are used referentially and declaratively in a human-like manner, as apes’ “pointing” gesture has many limitations and they do not gesture iconically. Great ape gestures constitute a unique form of primate communication with their own unique qualities.Assessing cetacean surveys throughout the Mediterranean Sea : a gap analysis in environmental spaceMannocci, LauraRoberts, Jason J.Halpin, Patrick N.Authier, MatthieuBoisseau, OliverBradai, Mohamed NejmeddineCañadas, AnaChicote, CarlaDavid, LéaDi-Méglio, NathalieFortuna, Caterina M.Frantzis, AlexandrosGazo, ManelGenov, TilenHammond, Philip S.Holcer, DraškoKaschner, KristinKerem, DaniLauriano, GiancarloLewis, TimNotarbartolo di Sciara, GiuseppePanigada, SimoneRaga, Juan AntonioScheinin, AviadRidoux, VincentVella, AdrianaVella, Josephhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128292018-03-05T10:30:08Z2018-02-15T00:00:00ZHeterogeneous data collection in the marine environment has led to large gaps in our knowledge of marine species distributions. To fill these gaps, models calibrated on existing data may be used to predict species distributions in unsampled areas, given that available data are sufficiently representative. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility of mapping cetacean densities across the entire Mediterranean Sea using models calibrated on available survey data and various environmental covariates. We aggregated 302,481 km of line transect survey effort conducted in the Mediterranean Sea within the past 20 years by many organisations. Survey coverage was highly heterogeneous geographically and seasonally: large data gaps were present in the eastern and southern Mediterranean and in non-summer months. We mapped the extent of interpolation versus extrapolation and the proportion of data nearby in environmental space when models calibrated on existing survey data were used for prediction across the entire Mediterranean Sea. Using model predictions to map cetacean densities in the eastern and southern Mediterranean, characterised by warmer, less productive waters, and more intense eddy activity, would lead to potentially unreliable extrapolations. We stress the need for systematic surveys of cetaceans in these environmentally unique Mediterranean waters, particularly in non-summer months.
Authors thank United States Fleet Forces Command and Naval Facilities Engineering Command Atlantic for funding and support for the development of this gap analysis.
2018-02-15T00:00:00ZMannocci, LauraRoberts, Jason J.Halpin, Patrick N.Authier, MatthieuBoisseau, OliverBradai, Mohamed NejmeddineCañadas, AnaChicote, CarlaDavid, LéaDi-Méglio, NathalieFortuna, Caterina M.Frantzis, AlexandrosGazo, ManelGenov, TilenHammond, Philip S.Holcer, DraškoKaschner, KristinKerem, DaniLauriano, GiancarloLewis, TimNotarbartolo di Sciara, GiuseppePanigada, SimoneRaga, Juan AntonioScheinin, AviadRidoux, VincentVella, AdrianaVella, JosephHeterogeneous data collection in the marine environment has led to large gaps in our knowledge of marine species distributions. To fill these gaps, models calibrated on existing data may be used to predict species distributions in unsampled areas, given that available data are sufficiently representative. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility of mapping cetacean densities across the entire Mediterranean Sea using models calibrated on available survey data and various environmental covariates. We aggregated 302,481 km of line transect survey effort conducted in the Mediterranean Sea within the past 20 years by many organisations. Survey coverage was highly heterogeneous geographically and seasonally: large data gaps were present in the eastern and southern Mediterranean and in non-summer months. We mapped the extent of interpolation versus extrapolation and the proportion of data nearby in environmental space when models calibrated on existing survey data were used for prediction across the entire Mediterranean Sea. Using model predictions to map cetacean densities in the eastern and southern Mediterranean, characterised by warmer, less productive waters, and more intense eddy activity, would lead to potentially unreliable extrapolations. We stress the need for systematic surveys of cetaceans in these environmentally unique Mediterranean waters, particularly in non-summer months.Social inhibition and behavioural flexibility when the context changes : a comparison across six primate speciesAmici, FedericaCall, JosepWatzek, JuliaBrosnan, SarahAureli, Filippohttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128282018-03-05T10:30:06Z2018-02-15T00:00:00ZThe ability to inhibit previously employed strategies and flexibly adjust behavioural responses to external conditions may be critical for individual survival. However, it is unclear which factors predict their distribution across species. Here, we investigated social inhibition and behavioural flexibility in six primate species (chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, gorillas, capuchin monkeys and spider monkeys) differing in terms of phylogenetic relatedness, foraging ecology and social organization. Depending on the social context, individuals could maximize their food intake by inhibiting the selection of a larger food reward in one condition (i.e. inhibition), but not in others, which required them to flexibly switching strategies across conditions (i.e. behavioural flexibility). Overall, our study revealed inter-specific differences in social inhibition and behavioural flexibility, which partially reflected differences in fission-fusion dynamics. In particular, orangutans and chimpanzees showed the highest level of inhibitory skills, while gorillas and capuchin monkeys showed the lowest one. In terms of behavioural flexibility, orangutans and spider monkeys were the best performers, while bonobos and capuchin monkeys were the worst ones. These results contribute to our understanding that inhibition and behavioural flexibility may be linked in more complex ways than usually thought, although both abilities play a crucial role in efficient problem solving.
This work was conducted while the first author held a Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers (Humboldt ID number 1138999). We acknowledge support from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and Leipzig University within the program of Open Access Publishing.
2018-02-15T00:00:00ZAmici, FedericaCall, JosepWatzek, JuliaBrosnan, SarahAureli, FilippoThe ability to inhibit previously employed strategies and flexibly adjust behavioural responses to external conditions may be critical for individual survival. However, it is unclear which factors predict their distribution across species. Here, we investigated social inhibition and behavioural flexibility in six primate species (chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, gorillas, capuchin monkeys and spider monkeys) differing in terms of phylogenetic relatedness, foraging ecology and social organization. Depending on the social context, individuals could maximize their food intake by inhibiting the selection of a larger food reward in one condition (i.e. inhibition), but not in others, which required them to flexibly switching strategies across conditions (i.e. behavioural flexibility). Overall, our study revealed inter-specific differences in social inhibition and behavioural flexibility, which partially reflected differences in fission-fusion dynamics. In particular, orangutans and chimpanzees showed the highest level of inhibitory skills, while gorillas and capuchin monkeys showed the lowest one. In terms of behavioural flexibility, orangutans and spider monkeys were the best performers, while bonobos and capuchin monkeys were the worst ones. These results contribute to our understanding that inhibition and behavioural flexibility may be linked in more complex ways than usually thought, although both abilities play a crucial role in efficient problem solving.The Canakinumab Antiinflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study trial-the starting gun has firedCrossman, DavidRothman, Alexanderhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128262018-03-02T00:15:22Z2017-12-01T00:00:00ZAuthors work in the area has been supported by UK Medical Research Council Experimental Medicine Grant (G0502131), the National Institute for Health Research and a UK Medical Research Council Clinical Research Training Fellowship (AR -MR/K002406/1). AR is supported by a Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Career Development Fellowship 206632/Z/17/Z.
2017-12-01T00:00:00ZCrossman, DavidRothman, AlexanderDynamical dark energy in light of the latest observationsZhao, Gong-BoRaveri, MarcoPogosian, LevonWang, YutingCrittenden, Robert G.Handley, Will J.Percival, Will J.Beutler, FlorianBrinkmann, JonathanChuang, Chia-HsunCuesta, Antonio J.Eisenstein, Daniel J.Kitaura, Francisco-ShuKoyama, KazuyaL'Huillier, BenjaminNichol, Robert C.Pieri, Matthew M.Rodriguez-Torres, SergioRoss, Ashley J.Rossi, GrazianoSánchez, Ariel G.Shafieloo, ArmanTinker, Jeremy L.Tojeiro, RitaVazquez, Jose A.Zhang, Hanyuhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128252018-03-18T02:30:21Z2017-08-28T00:00:00ZA flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe dominated by a cosmological constant (Λ) and cold dark matter (CDM) has been the working model preferred by cosmologists since the discovery of cosmic acceleration1,2. However, tensions of various degrees ofsignificance are known to be present among existing datasets within the ΛCDM framework3-11. In particular, the Lyman-α forest measurement of the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) by the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey3 prefers a smaller value of the matter density fraction ΩM than that preferred by cosmic microwave background (CMB). Also, the recently measured value of the Hubble constant, H0 = 73.24 ±1.74 km s-1 Mpc-1 (ref. 12), is 3.4σ higher than the 66.93 ± 0.62 km s-1Mpc-1 inferred from the Planck CMB data7. In this work, we investigate whether these tensions can be interpreted as evidence for a non-constant dynamical dark energy. Using the Kullback-Leibler divergence13 to quantify the tension between datasets, we find that the tensions are relieved by an evolving dark energy, with the dynamical dark energy model preferred at a 3.5σ significance level based on the improvement in the fit alone. While, at present, the Bayesian evidence for the dynamical dark energy is insufficient to favour it over ΛCDM, we show that, if the current best-fit dark energy happened to be the true model, it would be decisively detected by the upcoming Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument survey14.
2017-08-28T00:00:00ZZhao, Gong-BoRaveri, MarcoPogosian, LevonWang, YutingCrittenden, Robert G.Handley, Will J.Percival, Will J.Beutler, FlorianBrinkmann, JonathanChuang, Chia-HsunCuesta, Antonio J.Eisenstein, Daniel J.Kitaura, Francisco-ShuKoyama, KazuyaL'Huillier, BenjaminNichol, Robert C.Pieri, Matthew M.Rodriguez-Torres, SergioRoss, Ashley J.Rossi, GrazianoSánchez, Ariel G.Shafieloo, ArmanTinker, Jeremy L.Tojeiro, RitaVazquez, Jose A.Zhang, HanyuA flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe dominated by a cosmological constant (Λ) and cold dark matter (CDM) has been the working model preferred by cosmologists since the discovery of cosmic acceleration1,2. However, tensions of various degrees ofsignificance are known to be present among existing datasets within the ΛCDM framework3-11. In particular, the Lyman-α forest measurement of the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) by the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey3 prefers a smaller value of the matter density fraction ΩM than that preferred by cosmic microwave background (CMB). Also, the recently measured value of the Hubble constant, H0 = 73.24 ±1.74 km s-1 Mpc-1 (ref. 12), is 3.4σ higher than the 66.93 ± 0.62 km s-1Mpc-1 inferred from the Planck CMB data7. In this work, we investigate whether these tensions can be interpreted as evidence for a non-constant dynamical dark energy. Using the Kullback-Leibler divergence13 to quantify the tension between datasets, we find that the tensions are relieved by an evolving dark energy, with the dynamical dark energy model preferred at a 3.5σ significance level based on the improvement in the fit alone. While, at present, the Bayesian evidence for the dynamical dark energy is insufficient to favour it over ΛCDM, we show that, if the current best-fit dark energy happened to be the true model, it would be decisively detected by the upcoming Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument survey14.A comparison of copper and acid site zeolites for the production of nitric oxide for biomedical applicationsRussell, Samantha E.González Carballo, Juan MaríaOrellana-Tavra, ClaudiaFairen-Jimenez, DavidMorris, Russell E.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128242018-03-04T02:30:13Z2017-03-28T00:00:00ZCopper-exchanged and acidic zeolites are shown to produce nitric oxide (NO) from a nitrite source in biologically active (nanomolar) concentrations. Four zeolites were studied; mordenite, ferrierite, ZSM-5 and SSZ-13, which had varying pore size, channel systems and Si/Al ratios. ZSM-5 and SSZ-13 produced the highest amounts of NO in both the copper and acid form. The high activity and regeneration of the copper active sites makes them good candidates for long-term NO production. Initial cytotoxicity tests have shown at least one of the copper zeolites (Cu-SSZ-13) to be biocompatible, highlighting the potential usage within biomedical applications.
The authors would like to thank the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, University of St Andrews, and CRITICAT Centre for Doctoral Training for financial support [Ph.D. studentship to SR; Grant code: EP/L016419/1]. C. A. O. thanks Becas Chile and the Cambridge Trust for funding. D. F.-J. thanks the Royal Society (UK) for funding through a University Research Fellowship. Thanks also go to Chevron for the sample of H-SSZ-13.
2017-03-28T00:00:00ZRussell, Samantha E.González Carballo, Juan MaríaOrellana-Tavra, ClaudiaFairen-Jimenez, DavidMorris, Russell E.Copper-exchanged and acidic zeolites are shown to produce nitric oxide (NO) from a nitrite source in biologically active (nanomolar) concentrations. Four zeolites were studied; mordenite, ferrierite, ZSM-5 and SSZ-13, which had varying pore size, channel systems and Si/Al ratios. ZSM-5 and SSZ-13 produced the highest amounts of NO in both the copper and acid form. The high activity and regeneration of the copper active sites makes them good candidates for long-term NO production. Initial cytotoxicity tests have shown at least one of the copper zeolites (Cu-SSZ-13) to be biocompatible, highlighting the potential usage within biomedical applications.A quantitative study of in vivo protoporphyrin IX fluorescence build up during occlusive treatment phasesCampbell, C. LouiseBrown, C. Tom A.Wood, KennethSalvio, Ana GabrielaInada, Natalia M.Bagnato, Vanderlei S.Moseley, Harryhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128232018-03-02T00:15:29Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZBackground: Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive light based therapy used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and dysplasia. During PDT, the light sensitive molecule protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) is activated, resulting in the production of singlet oxygen, which subsequently leads to cell death. PpIX is metabolised from a topically applied pro-drug and the strong fluorescence signal associated with PpIX can be utilised as an indicator of the amount of PpIX present within the tumour tissue. In this work we measure the build up PpIX during the occlusive treatment phase and investigate how the PpIX production rate is affected by different lesion and patient characteristics. Methods : Fluorescence measurements were used to investigate the build up of PpIX within the tumour tissue during the 3 hour long occlusive treatment prior to irradiation. The study included in vivo measurements of 38 lesions from 38 individual patients. Actinic keratosis (AK) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) were the lesion types included in this study. The resulting data from the study was analysed using generalised linear mixed effects models. Results : It was found that the surface fluorescence signal linearly increased with occlusive treatment time. The predictive models suggest that there is a significant difference in PpIX production between lesion location, however no significant difference is demonstrated between different lesion types, gender and skin type. Conclusions : The study extends and supports previous knowledge of PpIX production during the occlusive treatment phase.
C L Campbell acknowledges financial support from an UK EPSRC PhD studentship (EP/K503162/1), the Alfred Stewart Trust, the Russell trust award, the Santander mobility award and the FAPESP CEPOF grant 2013/07276.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZCampbell, C. LouiseBrown, C. Tom A.Wood, KennethSalvio, Ana GabrielaInada, Natalia M.Bagnato, Vanderlei S.Moseley, HarryBackground: Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive light based therapy used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and dysplasia. During PDT, the light sensitive molecule protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) is activated, resulting in the production of singlet oxygen, which subsequently leads to cell death. PpIX is metabolised from a topically applied pro-drug and the strong fluorescence signal associated with PpIX can be utilised as an indicator of the amount of PpIX present within the tumour tissue. In this work we measure the build up PpIX during the occlusive treatment phase and investigate how the PpIX production rate is affected by different lesion and patient characteristics. Methods : Fluorescence measurements were used to investigate the build up of PpIX within the tumour tissue during the 3 hour long occlusive treatment prior to irradiation. The study included in vivo measurements of 38 lesions from 38 individual patients. Actinic keratosis (AK) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) were the lesion types included in this study. The resulting data from the study was analysed using generalised linear mixed effects models. Results : It was found that the surface fluorescence signal linearly increased with occlusive treatment time. The predictive models suggest that there is a significant difference in PpIX production between lesion location, however no significant difference is demonstrated between different lesion types, gender and skin type. Conclusions : The study extends and supports previous knowledge of PpIX production during the occlusive treatment phase.Short episodes of crust generation during protracted accretionary processesTang, Gong-JianChung, Sun-LinHawkesworth, Chris J.Cawood, P. A.Wang, QiangWyman, Derek A.Xu, Yi-GangZhao, Zhen-Huahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128222018-03-02T00:15:29Z2017-04-15T00:00:00ZAccretionary orogens are major sites of generation of continental crust but the spatial and temporal distribution of crust generation within individual orogens remains poorly constrained. Paleozoic (∼540–270 Ma) granitic rocks from the Alati, Junggar and Chinese Tianshan segments of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) have markedly bimodal age frequency distributions with peaks of ages at ∼400 Ma and 280 Ma for the Altai segment, and ∼430 Ma and 300 Ma for the Junggar and Chinese Tianshan segments. Most of the magma was generated in short time intervals (∼20–40 Ma), and variations in magma volumes and in Nd–Hf isotope ratios are taken to reflect variable rates of new crust generation within a long-lived convergent plate setting. The Junggar segment is characterized by high and uniform Nd–Hf isotope ratios (εNd(t) = +5 to +8; zircon εHf(t) = +10 to +16) and it appears to have formed in an intra-oceanic arc system. In the Altai and Chinese Tianshan segments, the Nd–Hf isotope ratios (εNd(t) = −7 to +8; zircon εHf(t) = −16 to +16) are lower, although they increase with decreasing age of the rock units. The introduction of a juvenile component into the Chinese Tianshan and Altai granitic rocks appears to have occurred in continental arc settings and it reflects a progressive reduction in the contributions from old continental lower crust and lithospheric mantle. Within the long-lived convergent margin setting (over ∼200 Ma), higher volumes of magma, and greater contributions of juvenile material, were typically emplaced over short time intervals of ∼20–40 Ma. These intervals were associated with higher Nb/La ratios, coupled with lower La/Yb ratios, in both the mafic and granitic rocks, and these episodes of increased magmatism from intraplate-like sources are therefore thought to have been in response to lithospheric extension. The trace element and Nd–Hf isotope data, in combination with estimates of granitic magma volumes, highlight that crust generation rates are strongly non-uniform within long-lived accretionary orogens. The estimated crust generation rates range from ∼0.1 to ∼40 km3/km/Ma for the Paleozoic record of the CAOB, and only comparatively short (20–40 Ma) periods of elevated magmatic activity had rates similar to those for modern intra-oceanic and continental arcs.
This study was supported by funding from the Strategic Priority Research Program (B) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (grant nos. XDB03010600 and XDB18020204), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant nos. 41202041, 41630208 and 41673033), the Key Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (QYZDJ-SSW-DQC026), the DREAM Program of China (No. 2016YFC0600407), talent project of Guangdong Province (2014TX01Z079), and GIG–CAS 135 project 135TP201601. PAC and CJH acknowledge support from the Natural Environment Research Council (grant NE/J021822/1). The senior author thanks the grant from the NSC, Taiwan, which supported his one-year academic visit at the NTU. This is contribution no. IS-2352 from GIG–CAS.
2017-04-15T00:00:00ZTang, Gong-JianChung, Sun-LinHawkesworth, Chris J.Cawood, P. A.Wang, QiangWyman, Derek A.Xu, Yi-GangZhao, Zhen-HuaAccretionary orogens are major sites of generation of continental crust but the spatial and temporal distribution of crust generation within individual orogens remains poorly constrained. Paleozoic (∼540–270 Ma) granitic rocks from the Alati, Junggar and Chinese Tianshan segments of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) have markedly bimodal age frequency distributions with peaks of ages at ∼400 Ma and 280 Ma for the Altai segment, and ∼430 Ma and 300 Ma for the Junggar and Chinese Tianshan segments. Most of the magma was generated in short time intervals (∼20–40 Ma), and variations in magma volumes and in Nd–Hf isotope ratios are taken to reflect variable rates of new crust generation within a long-lived convergent plate setting. The Junggar segment is characterized by high and uniform Nd–Hf isotope ratios (εNd(t) = +5 to +8; zircon εHf(t) = +10 to +16) and it appears to have formed in an intra-oceanic arc system. In the Altai and Chinese Tianshan segments, the Nd–Hf isotope ratios (εNd(t) = −7 to +8; zircon εHf(t) = −16 to +16) are lower, although they increase with decreasing age of the rock units. The introduction of a juvenile component into the Chinese Tianshan and Altai granitic rocks appears to have occurred in continental arc settings and it reflects a progressive reduction in the contributions from old continental lower crust and lithospheric mantle. Within the long-lived convergent margin setting (over ∼200 Ma), higher volumes of magma, and greater contributions of juvenile material, were typically emplaced over short time intervals of ∼20–40 Ma. These intervals were associated with higher Nb/La ratios, coupled with lower La/Yb ratios, in both the mafic and granitic rocks, and these episodes of increased magmatism from intraplate-like sources are therefore thought to have been in response to lithospheric extension. The trace element and Nd–Hf isotope data, in combination with estimates of granitic magma volumes, highlight that crust generation rates are strongly non-uniform within long-lived accretionary orogens. The estimated crust generation rates range from ∼0.1 to ∼40 km3/km/Ma for the Paleozoic record of the CAOB, and only comparatively short (20–40 Ma) periods of elevated magmatic activity had rates similar to those for modern intra-oceanic and continental arcs.Corrigendum : Competition between hydrogen and halogen bonding in halogenated 1-methyluracil:water systemsHogan, Simon W. L.van Mourik, Tanjahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128212018-03-02T00:15:26Z2017-05-05T00:00:00ZThis article corrects: Competition between hydrogen and halogen bonding in halogenated 1-methyluracil:water systems, Volume 37, Issue 8, 763-770. Article first published online: 15 January 2016.
2017-05-05T00:00:00ZHogan, Simon W. L.van Mourik, TanjaThis article corrects: Competition between hydrogen and halogen bonding in halogenated 1-methyluracil:water systems, Volume 37, Issue 8, 763-770. Article first published online: 15 January 2016.Ethnic differences in male reproductive hormones and relationships with adiposity and insulin resistance in older menEendebak, Robert J. A. H.Swiecicka, AgnieszkaGromski, Piotr S.Pye, Stephen R.O'Neill, Terence W.Marshall, AlanKeevil, Brian G.Tampubolon, GindoGoodacre, RoystonWu, Frederick C. W.Rutter, Martin K.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128202018-03-02T00:15:27Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZObjectives: To assess ethnic differences in male reproductive hormone levels and to determine if any differences are explained by adiposity, insulin resistance (IR), or comorbidities in older men. Design: Multi-ethnic cross-sectional observational study. Participants: Community dwelling middle-aged and elderly men residing in the U.K. aged 40-84 years of South Asian (SA; n=180), White European (WE; n=328) or African Caribbean (AC; n=166) origin. Observations: Measured testosterone (T), calculated free T (cFT), SHBG, and LH in SA, WE and AC men along with an assessment of body composition, IR, life-style factors and medical conditions. Results: Age-adjusted mean T and cFT levels were lower in SA men when compared to WE and AC men (mean (SEM) T: SA: 14·0 ± 0·4; WE: 17·1 ± 0·3; AC: 17·2 ± 0·5 nmol/l, P < 0·001; cFT: SA: 283 ± 7; WE: 313 ± 5; AC: 314 ± 8 pmol/l, P < 0·006). Compared to WE and AC men, SA men had higher levels of body fat, IR, comorbidities and diabetes. After adjusting for body fat, IR and other confounders, T levels in SA men remained lower than in WE men (P = 0·04) but ethnic differences in cFT became nonsignificant. LH levels were higher in SA than WE men in age-adjusted and fully adjusted models. Conclusions: T and cFT are lower in SA men than in WE and AC men. Whether ethnic-specific reference ranges for T and cFT might be appropriate in clinical practice requires further investigation. Ethnic differences in cFT, but not T, appear to be, more readily, explained by ethnic differences in adiposity, thus providing insights into potential pathophysiological mechanisms.
RJAHE is supported by a Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council – Doctoral Training Partnership (BBSRC-DTP) PhD-fellowship, and is grateful for receiving support from the Fundatie van de Vrijvrouwe van Renswoude and Scholten-Cordes scholarship foundations. All authors would like to thank the men who participated in the HUSERMET-project (10) and are grateful for funding of the HUSERMET project by the U.K. BBSRC (Grant number: BB/C519038/1) and U.K. Medical Research Council, with contributions from Astra-Zeneca and GlaxoSmithKline.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZEendebak, Robert J. A. H.Swiecicka, AgnieszkaGromski, Piotr S.Pye, Stephen R.O'Neill, Terence W.Marshall, AlanKeevil, Brian G.Tampubolon, GindoGoodacre, RoystonWu, Frederick C. W.Rutter, Martin K.Objectives: To assess ethnic differences in male reproductive hormone levels and to determine if any differences are explained by adiposity, insulin resistance (IR), or comorbidities in older men. Design: Multi-ethnic cross-sectional observational study. Participants: Community dwelling middle-aged and elderly men residing in the U.K. aged 40-84 years of South Asian (SA; n=180), White European (WE; n=328) or African Caribbean (AC; n=166) origin. Observations: Measured testosterone (T), calculated free T (cFT), SHBG, and LH in SA, WE and AC men along with an assessment of body composition, IR, life-style factors and medical conditions. Results: Age-adjusted mean T and cFT levels were lower in SA men when compared to WE and AC men (mean (SEM) T: SA: 14·0 ± 0·4; WE: 17·1 ± 0·3; AC: 17·2 ± 0·5 nmol/l, P < 0·001; cFT: SA: 283 ± 7; WE: 313 ± 5; AC: 314 ± 8 pmol/l, P < 0·006). Compared to WE and AC men, SA men had higher levels of body fat, IR, comorbidities and diabetes. After adjusting for body fat, IR and other confounders, T levels in SA men remained lower than in WE men (P = 0·04) but ethnic differences in cFT became nonsignificant. LH levels were higher in SA than WE men in age-adjusted and fully adjusted models. Conclusions: T and cFT are lower in SA men than in WE and AC men. Whether ethnic-specific reference ranges for T and cFT might be appropriate in clinical practice requires further investigation. Ethnic differences in cFT, but not T, appear to be, more readily, explained by ethnic differences in adiposity, thus providing insights into potential pathophysiological mechanisms.Moving to 3D : relationships between coral planar area, surface area and volumeHouse, Jenny E.Brambilla, VivianaBidaut, Luc M.Christie, Alec P.Pizarro, OscarMadin, Joshua S.Dornelas, Mariahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128192018-03-05T09:30:11Z2018-02-06T00:00:00ZCoral reefs are a valuable and vulnerable marine ecosystem. The structure of coral reefs influences their health and ability to fulfill ecosystem functions and services. However, monitoring reef corals largely relies on 1D or 2D estimates of coral cover and abundance that overlook change in ecologically significant aspects of the reefs because they do not incorporate vertical or volumetric information. This study explores the relationship between 2D and 3D metrics of coral size. We show that surface area and volume scale consistently with planar area, albeit with morphotype specific conversion parameters. We use a photogrammetric approach using open-source software to estimate the ability of photogrammetry to provide measurement estimates of corals in 3D. Technological developments have made photogrammetry a valid and practical technique for studying coral reefs. We anticipate that these techniques for moving coral research from 2D into 3D will facilitate answering ecological questions by incorporating the 3rd dimension into monitoring.
This work was supported by the School of Biology, University of St Andrews, the Scottish Funding Council (MASTS grant reference HR09011) and the Templeton Foundation (grant #60501, 'Putting the Extended Evolutionary Synthesis to the Test').
2018-02-06T00:00:00ZHouse, Jenny E.Brambilla, VivianaBidaut, Luc M.Christie, Alec P.Pizarro, OscarMadin, Joshua S.Dornelas, MariaCoral reefs are a valuable and vulnerable marine ecosystem. The structure of coral reefs influences their health and ability to fulfill ecosystem functions and services. However, monitoring reef corals largely relies on 1D or 2D estimates of coral cover and abundance that overlook change in ecologically significant aspects of the reefs because they do not incorporate vertical or volumetric information. This study explores the relationship between 2D and 3D metrics of coral size. We show that surface area and volume scale consistently with planar area, albeit with morphotype specific conversion parameters. We use a photogrammetric approach using open-source software to estimate the ability of photogrammetry to provide measurement estimates of corals in 3D. Technological developments have made photogrammetry a valid and practical technique for studying coral reefs. We anticipate that these techniques for moving coral research from 2D into 3D will facilitate answering ecological questions by incorporating the 3rd dimension into monitoring.Not just fat : investigating the proteome of cetacean blubber tissueKershaw, Joanna LouiseBotting, Catherine HelenBrownlow, AndrewHall, Ailsa Janehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128182018-03-01T00:15:34Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZMammalian adipose tissue is increasingly being recognized as an endocrine organ involved in the regulation of a number of metabolic processes and pathways. It responds to signals from different hormone systems and the central nervous system, and expresses a variety of protein factors with important paracrine and endocrine functions. This study presents a first step towards the systematic analysis of the protein content of cetacean adipose tissue, the blubber, in order to investigate the kinds of proteins present and their relative abundance. Full depth blubber subsamples were collected from dead-stranded harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) (n = 21). Three total protein extraction methods were trialled, and the highest total protein yields with the lowest extraction variability were achieved using a RIPA cell lysis and extraction buffer based protocol. Extracted proteins were separated using 1D Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and identified using nanoflow Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization in tandem with Mass Spectrometry (nLC-ESI–MS/MS). A range of proteins were identified (n = 295) and classed into eight functional groups, the most abundant of which were involved in cell function and metabolism (45%), immune response and inflammation (15%) and lipid metabolism (11%). These proteins likely originate both from the various cell types within the blubber tissue itself, and from the circulation. They therefore have the potential to capture information on the cellular and physiological stresses experienced by individuals at the time of sampling. The importance of this proteomic approach is two-fold: Firstly, it could help to assign novel functions to marine mammal blubber in keeping with current understanding of the multi-functional role of adipose tissue in other mammals. Secondly, it could lead to the development of a suite of biomarkers to better monitor the physiological state and health of live individuals though remote blubber biopsy sampling.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZKershaw, Joanna LouiseBotting, Catherine HelenBrownlow, AndrewHall, Ailsa JaneMammalian adipose tissue is increasingly being recognized as an endocrine organ involved in the regulation of a number of metabolic processes and pathways. It responds to signals from different hormone systems and the central nervous system, and expresses a variety of protein factors with important paracrine and endocrine functions. This study presents a first step towards the systematic analysis of the protein content of cetacean adipose tissue, the blubber, in order to investigate the kinds of proteins present and their relative abundance. Full depth blubber subsamples were collected from dead-stranded harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) (n = 21). Three total protein extraction methods were trialled, and the highest total protein yields with the lowest extraction variability were achieved using a RIPA cell lysis and extraction buffer based protocol. Extracted proteins were separated using 1D Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and identified using nanoflow Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization in tandem with Mass Spectrometry (nLC-ESI–MS/MS). A range of proteins were identified (n = 295) and classed into eight functional groups, the most abundant of which were involved in cell function and metabolism (45%), immune response and inflammation (15%) and lipid metabolism (11%). These proteins likely originate both from the various cell types within the blubber tissue itself, and from the circulation. They therefore have the potential to capture information on the cellular and physiological stresses experienced by individuals at the time of sampling. The importance of this proteomic approach is two-fold: Firstly, it could help to assign novel functions to marine mammal blubber in keeping with current understanding of the multi-functional role of adipose tissue in other mammals. Secondly, it could lead to the development of a suite of biomarkers to better monitor the physiological state and health of live individuals though remote blubber biopsy sampling.Taking an insect-inspired approach to avian navigationPritchard, David J.Healy, Susan D.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128172018-03-14T11:30:08Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZNavigation is an essential skill for many animals, and understanding how animal use environmental information, particularly visual information, to navigate has a long history in both ethology and psychology. In birds, the dominant approach for investigating navigation at small-scales comes from comparative psychology, which emphasizes the cognitive representations underpinning spatial memory. The majority of this work is based in the laboratory and it is unclear whether this context itself affects the information that birds learn and use when they search for a location. Data from hummingbirds suggests that birds in the wild might use visual information in quite a different manner. To reconcile these differences, here we propose a new approach to avian navigation, inspired by the sensory-driven study of navigation in insects. Using methods devised for studying the navigation of insects, it is possible to quantify the visual information available to navigating birds, and then to determine how this information influences those birds’ navigation decisions. Focusing on four areas that we consider characteristic of the insect navigation perspective, we discuss how this approach has shone light on the information insects use to navigate, and assess the prospects of taking a similar approach with birds. Although birds and insects differ in many ways, there is nothing in the insect-inspired approach of the kind we describe that means these methods need be restricted to insects. On the contrary, adopting such an approach could provide a fresh perspective on the well-studied question of how birds navigate through a variety of environments.
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZPritchard, David J.Healy, Susan D.Navigation is an essential skill for many animals, and understanding how animal use environmental information, particularly visual information, to navigate has a long history in both ethology and psychology. In birds, the dominant approach for investigating navigation at small-scales comes from comparative psychology, which emphasizes the cognitive representations underpinning spatial memory. The majority of this work is based in the laboratory and it is unclear whether this context itself affects the information that birds learn and use when they search for a location. Data from hummingbirds suggests that birds in the wild might use visual information in quite a different manner. To reconcile these differences, here we propose a new approach to avian navigation, inspired by the sensory-driven study of navigation in insects. Using methods devised for studying the navigation of insects, it is possible to quantify the visual information available to navigating birds, and then to determine how this information influences those birds’ navigation decisions. Focusing on four areas that we consider characteristic of the insect navigation perspective, we discuss how this approach has shone light on the information insects use to navigate, and assess the prospects of taking a similar approach with birds. Although birds and insects differ in many ways, there is nothing in the insect-inspired approach of the kind we describe that means these methods need be restricted to insects. On the contrary, adopting such an approach could provide a fresh perspective on the well-studied question of how birds navigate through a variety of environments.Bonobo and chimpanzee gestures overlap extensively in meaningGraham, Kirsty E.Hobaiter, CatherineOunsley, JamesFuruichi, TakeshiByrne, Richard W.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128162018-03-01T00:15:22Z2018-02-27T00:00:00ZCross-species comparison of great ape gesturing has so far been limited to the physical form of gestures in the repertoire, without questioning whether gestures share the same meanings. Researchers have recently catalogued the meanings of chimpanzee gestures, but little is known about the gesture meanings of our other closest living relative, the bonobo. The bonobo gestural repertoire overlaps by approximately 90% with that of the chimpanzee, but such overlap might not extend to meanings. Here, we first determine the meanings of bonobo gestures by analysing the outcomes of gesturing that apparently satisfy the signaller. Around half of bonobo gestures have a single meaning, while half are more ambiguous. Moreover, all but 1 gesture type have distinct meanings, achieving a different distribution of intended meanings to the average distribution for all gesture types. We then employ a randomisation procedure in a novel way to test the likelihood that the observed between-species overlap in the assignment of meanings to gestures would arise by chance under a set of different constraints. We compare a matrix of the meanings of bonobo gestures with a matrix for those of chimpanzees against 10,000 randomised iterations of matrices constrained to the original data at 4 different levels. We find that the similarity between the 2 species is much greater than would be expected by chance. Bonobos and chimpanzees share not only the physical form of the gestures but also many gesture meanings.
Funding: JSPS Core-to-Core Program http://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-core_to_core/ (grant number 2012-2014, 2015-2017). Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Grant in Aid for Scientific Research (grant number 25304019, 25257407, 26257408). University of St Andrews https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/ug/fees-and-funding/scholarships/600th-wardlaw/ (grant number 600th Anniversary Scholarship). Wenner-Gren Foundation http://www.wennergren.org/ (grant number Gr. 8950).
2018-02-27T00:00:00ZGraham, Kirsty E.Hobaiter, CatherineOunsley, JamesFuruichi, TakeshiByrne, Richard W.Cross-species comparison of great ape gesturing has so far been limited to the physical form of gestures in the repertoire, without questioning whether gestures share the same meanings. Researchers have recently catalogued the meanings of chimpanzee gestures, but little is known about the gesture meanings of our other closest living relative, the bonobo. The bonobo gestural repertoire overlaps by approximately 90% with that of the chimpanzee, but such overlap might not extend to meanings. Here, we first determine the meanings of bonobo gestures by analysing the outcomes of gesturing that apparently satisfy the signaller. Around half of bonobo gestures have a single meaning, while half are more ambiguous. Moreover, all but 1 gesture type have distinct meanings, achieving a different distribution of intended meanings to the average distribution for all gesture types. We then employ a randomisation procedure in a novel way to test the likelihood that the observed between-species overlap in the assignment of meanings to gestures would arise by chance under a set of different constraints. We compare a matrix of the meanings of bonobo gestures with a matrix for those of chimpanzees against 10,000 randomised iterations of matrices constrained to the original data at 4 different levels. We find that the similarity between the 2 species is much greater than would be expected by chance. Bonobos and chimpanzees share not only the physical form of the gestures but also many gesture meanings.Stability of polar vortex lattice in ferroelectric superlatticesHong, ZijianDamodaran, AnoopXue, FeiHsu, Shang-LinBritson, JasonYadav, AjayNelson, ChristopherWang, JianjunScott, James FloydMartin, LaneRamesh, RamamoorthyChen, Long-Qinghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128142018-03-01T00:15:26Z2017-04-12T00:00:00ZA novel mesoscale state comprising of an ordered polar vortex lattice has been demonstrated in ferroelectric superlattices of PbTiO3/SrTiO3. Here, we employ phase-field simulations, analytical theory, and experimental observations to evaluate thermodynamic conditions and geometric length scales that are critical for the formation of such exotic vortex states. We show that the stability of these vortex lattices involves an intimate competition between long-range electrostatic, long-range elastic, and short-range polarization gradient-related interactions leading to both an upper and a lower bound to the length scale at which these states can be observed. We found that the critical length is related to the intrinsic domain wall width, which could serve as a simple intuitive design rule for the discovery of novel ultrafine topological structures in ferroic systems.
The work is supported by U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering under Award FG02-07ER46417 (L.-Q.C., F.X., and J.B.). Z.H. acknowledges the support by NSF-MRSEC Grant DMR-1420620 and NSF-MWN Grant DMR-1210588. A.R.D. acknowledges support from the Army Research Office under Grant W911NF-14-1-0104. L.W.M. acknowledges support from the National Science Foundation under Grant DMR-1451219. A.K.Y., C.T.N., and R.R. acknowledge support from the Office of Basic Energy Sciences, U.S. Department of Energy under contract no. DE-AC02-05CH11231. L.W.M. and R.R. acknowledge support from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s EPiQS Initiative, Grant GBMF5307.
2017-04-12T00:00:00ZHong, ZijianDamodaran, AnoopXue, FeiHsu, Shang-LinBritson, JasonYadav, AjayNelson, ChristopherWang, JianjunScott, James FloydMartin, LaneRamesh, RamamoorthyChen, Long-QingA novel mesoscale state comprising of an ordered polar vortex lattice has been demonstrated in ferroelectric superlattices of PbTiO3/SrTiO3. Here, we employ phase-field simulations, analytical theory, and experimental observations to evaluate thermodynamic conditions and geometric length scales that are critical for the formation of such exotic vortex states. We show that the stability of these vortex lattices involves an intimate competition between long-range electrostatic, long-range elastic, and short-range polarization gradient-related interactions leading to both an upper and a lower bound to the length scale at which these states can be observed. We found that the critical length is related to the intrinsic domain wall width, which could serve as a simple intuitive design rule for the discovery of novel ultrafine topological structures in ferroic systems.Examining the role of individual movement in promoting coexistence in a spatially explicit prisoner's dilemmaBurgess, Andrew E. F.Lorenzi, TommasoSchofield, Pietà G.Hubbard, Stephen F.Chaplain, Mark A. J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128132018-03-01T00:15:25Z2017-04-21T00:00:00ZThe emergence of cooperation is a major conundrum of evolutionary biology. To unravel this evolutionary riddle, several models have been developed within the theoretical framework of spatial game theory, focussing on the interactions between two general classes of player, "cooperators" and "defectors". Generally, explicit movement in the spatial domain is not considered in these models, with strategies moving via imitation or through colonisation of neighbouring sites. We present here a spatially explicit stochastic individual-based model in which pure cooperators and defectors undergo random motion via diffusion and also chemotaxis guided by the gradient of a semiochemical. Individual movement rules are derived from an underlying system of reaction-diffusion-taxis partial differential equations which describes the dynamics of the local number of individuals and the concentration of the semiochemical. Local interactions are governed by the payoff matrix of the classical prisoner's dilemma, and accumulated payoffs are translated into offspring. We investigate the cases of both synchronous and non-synchronous generations. Focussing on an ecological scenario where defectors are parasitic on cooperators, we find that random motion and semiochemical sensing bring about self-generated patterns in which resident cooperators and parasitic defectors can coexist in proportions that fluctuate about non-zero values. Remarkably, coexistence emerges as a genuine consequence of the natural tendency of cooperators to aggregate into clusters, without the need for them to find physical shelter or outrun the parasitic defectors. This provides further evidence that spatial clustering enhances the benefits of mutual cooperation and plays a crucial role in preserving cooperative behaviours.
AEFB gratefully acknowledges the support of an EPSRC CASE PhD studentship.
2017-04-21T00:00:00ZBurgess, Andrew E. F.Lorenzi, TommasoSchofield, Pietà G.Hubbard, Stephen F.Chaplain, Mark A. J.The emergence of cooperation is a major conundrum of evolutionary biology. To unravel this evolutionary riddle, several models have been developed within the theoretical framework of spatial game theory, focussing on the interactions between two general classes of player, "cooperators" and "defectors". Generally, explicit movement in the spatial domain is not considered in these models, with strategies moving via imitation or through colonisation of neighbouring sites. We present here a spatially explicit stochastic individual-based model in which pure cooperators and defectors undergo random motion via diffusion and also chemotaxis guided by the gradient of a semiochemical. Individual movement rules are derived from an underlying system of reaction-diffusion-taxis partial differential equations which describes the dynamics of the local number of individuals and the concentration of the semiochemical. Local interactions are governed by the payoff matrix of the classical prisoner's dilemma, and accumulated payoffs are translated into offspring. We investigate the cases of both synchronous and non-synchronous generations. Focussing on an ecological scenario where defectors are parasitic on cooperators, we find that random motion and semiochemical sensing bring about self-generated patterns in which resident cooperators and parasitic defectors can coexist in proportions that fluctuate about non-zero values. Remarkably, coexistence emerges as a genuine consequence of the natural tendency of cooperators to aggregate into clusters, without the need for them to find physical shelter or outrun the parasitic defectors. This provides further evidence that spatial clustering enhances the benefits of mutual cooperation and plays a crucial role in preserving cooperative behaviours.Polymorphisms in the F pocket of HLA-B27 subtypes strongly affect assembly, chaperone interactions and heavy-chain misfoldingGuiliano, David B.North, HelenPanayoitou, EleniCampbell, Elaine C.McHugh, KirstyCooke, Fiona G. M.Silvestre, MarineBowness, PaulPowis, Simon J.Antoniou, Antony N.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128122018-03-18T01:38:34Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZObjective - HLA-B27 is associated with the inflammatory spondyloarthropathies (SpAs). Of significance, subtypes HLA-B*27:06 and HLA-B*27:09 are not associated with the SpAs. These subtypes primarily differ from the HLA-B*27:05 disease associated allele at residues 114 and 116 of the heavy chain, part of the F pocket of the antigen-binding groove. Dimerisation of HLA-B27 during assembly has been implicated in disease onset. This study investigated the factors influencing differences in dimerisation between disease associated and non-associated HLA-B27 alleles. Methods – HLA-B*27:05 and mutants resembling the HLA-B*27:06 and 09 subtypes were expressed in the rat C58 T cell line, the human CEM T cell line and its calnexin deficient variant CEM.NKR. Immunoprecipitation, pulse chase, flow cytometry and immunoblotting were performed to study the assembly kinetics, heavy chain dimerisation and chaperone associations. Results - By expressing HLA-B*27:05, 06-like and 09 alleles on a restrictive rat TAP peptide transporter background, we demonstrate that a tyrosine expressed at p116 or together with an aspartic acid residue at p114 inhibited HLA-B27 dimerisation and increased the assembly rate. F pocket residues alter the associations with chaperones of the early MHC class I folding pathway. Calnexin was demonstrated to participate in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mediated degradation of dimers, whereas the oxidoreductase ERp57 does not appear to influence dimerization. Conclusion - Residues within the F pocket of the peptide-binding groove differing between disease-associated and non-disease-associated HLA-B27 subtypes can influence the assembly process and heavy chain dimerisation, events which have been linked to the initiation of disease pathogenesis.
This work was in part funded by awards to Dr Antoniou (Arthritis Research UK Fellowship 15293) and Dr Powis (Scottish Government Chief Scientist Office ETM/56).
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZGuiliano, David B.North, HelenPanayoitou, EleniCampbell, Elaine C.McHugh, KirstyCooke, Fiona G. M.Silvestre, MarineBowness, PaulPowis, Simon J.Antoniou, Antony N.Objective - HLA-B27 is associated with the inflammatory spondyloarthropathies (SpAs). Of significance, subtypes HLA-B*27:06 and HLA-B*27:09 are not associated with the SpAs. These subtypes primarily differ from the HLA-B*27:05 disease associated allele at residues 114 and 116 of the heavy chain, part of the F pocket of the antigen-binding groove. Dimerisation of HLA-B27 during assembly has been implicated in disease onset. This study investigated the factors influencing differences in dimerisation between disease associated and non-associated HLA-B27 alleles. Methods – HLA-B*27:05 and mutants resembling the HLA-B*27:06 and 09 subtypes were expressed in the rat C58 T cell line, the human CEM T cell line and its calnexin deficient variant CEM.NKR. Immunoprecipitation, pulse chase, flow cytometry and immunoblotting were performed to study the assembly kinetics, heavy chain dimerisation and chaperone associations. Results - By expressing HLA-B*27:05, 06-like and 09 alleles on a restrictive rat TAP peptide transporter background, we demonstrate that a tyrosine expressed at p116 or together with an aspartic acid residue at p114 inhibited HLA-B27 dimerisation and increased the assembly rate. F pocket residues alter the associations with chaperones of the early MHC class I folding pathway. Calnexin was demonstrated to participate in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mediated degradation of dimers, whereas the oxidoreductase ERp57 does not appear to influence dimerization. Conclusion - Residues within the F pocket of the peptide-binding groove differing between disease-associated and non-disease-associated HLA-B27 subtypes can influence the assembly process and heavy chain dimerisation, events which have been linked to the initiation of disease pathogenesis.The influence of intelligence on the endorsement of the intelligence–attractiveness haloTalamas, Sean N.Mavor, Kenneth I.Perrett, David I.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128112018-03-01T00:16:19Z2016-06-01T00:00:00ZWhile some theories emphasize the influence of the ‘attractiveness halo’ on perceptions of intelligence, empirical evidence suggests that perceptions of attractiveness themselves can be influenced by perceptions of other desired traits such as intelligence. In an educational context, the effect of impressions of intelligence on teachers' expectations of students gives them particular significance. Research on kin selection and cognitive biases highlight the possibility that intelligent people endorse the intelligence–attractiveness relationship more strongly than less intelligent people. We investigated how a perceiver's intelligence can influence the association between perceived intelligence and attractiveness of others. We asked 126 participants to rate 48 children's faces for perceived intelligence and attractiveness and then asked them to complete the International Cognitive Ability Resource (ICAR) intelligence test. Ratings by participants who scored higher on the intelligence test showed a stronger relationship between perceptions of intelligence and attractiveness than participants who scored lower on the intelligence test. This effect was significant even after controlling for differences in participants' scale use. These findings, while preliminary, illuminate an individual difference that influences perceptions of intelligence with potentially concerning implications regarding expectancy effects in educational settings.
2016-06-01T00:00:00ZTalamas, Sean N.Mavor, Kenneth I.Perrett, David I.While some theories emphasize the influence of the ‘attractiveness halo’ on perceptions of intelligence, empirical evidence suggests that perceptions of attractiveness themselves can be influenced by perceptions of other desired traits such as intelligence. In an educational context, the effect of impressions of intelligence on teachers' expectations of students gives them particular significance. Research on kin selection and cognitive biases highlight the possibility that intelligent people endorse the intelligence–attractiveness relationship more strongly than less intelligent people. We investigated how a perceiver's intelligence can influence the association between perceived intelligence and attractiveness of others. We asked 126 participants to rate 48 children's faces for perceived intelligence and attractiveness and then asked them to complete the International Cognitive Ability Resource (ICAR) intelligence test. Ratings by participants who scored higher on the intelligence test showed a stronger relationship between perceptions of intelligence and attractiveness than participants who scored lower on the intelligence test. This effect was significant even after controlling for differences in participants' scale use. These findings, while preliminary, illuminate an individual difference that influences perceptions of intelligence with potentially concerning implications regarding expectancy effects in educational settings.SDSS-IV MaNGA : stellar angular momentum of about 2300 galaxies: unveiling the bimodality of massive galaxy propertiesGraham, Mark T.Cappellari, MicheleLi, HongyuMao, ShudeBershady, MatthewBizyaev, DmitryBrinkmann, JonathanBrownstein, Joel R.Bundy, KevinDrory, NivLaw, David R.Pan, KaikeThomas, DanielWake, David A.Weijmans, Anne-MarieWestfall, Kyle B.Yan, Renbinhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128102018-03-18T00:33:12Z2018-02-21T00:00:00ZWe measure λRe, a proxy for galaxy specific stellar angular momentum within one effective radius, and the ellipticity, ϵ, for about 2300 galaxies of all morphological types observed with integral field spectroscopy as part of the MaNGA survey, the largest such sample to date. We use the (λRe,ϵ) diagram to separate early-type galaxies into fast and slow rotators. We also visually classify each galaxy according to its optical morphology and two-dimensional stellar velocity field. Comparing these classifications to quantitative λRe measurements reveals tight relationships between angular momentum and galaxy structure. In order to account for atmospheric seeing, we use realistic models of galaxy kinematics to derive a general approximate analytic correction for λRe. Thanks to the size of the sample and the large number of massive galaxies, we unambiguously detect a clear bimodality in the (λRe,ϵ) diagram which may result from fundamental differences in galaxy assembly history. There is a sharp secondary density peak inside the region of the diagram with low λRe and ϵ < 0.4, previously suggested as the definition for slow rotators. Most of these galaxies are visually classified as non-regular rotators and have high velocity dispersion. The intrinsic bimodality must be stronger, as it tends to be smoothed by noise and inclination. The large sample of slow rotators allows us for the first time to unveil a secondary peak at +/-90 degrees in their distribution of the misalignments between the photometric and kinematic position angles. We confirm that genuine slow rotators start appearing above a stellar mass of 2 x 1011 M⊙ where a significant number of high-mass fast rotators also exist.
AW acknowledges support of a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship.
2018-02-21T00:00:00ZGraham, Mark T.Cappellari, MicheleLi, HongyuMao, ShudeBershady, MatthewBizyaev, DmitryBrinkmann, JonathanBrownstein, Joel R.Bundy, KevinDrory, NivLaw, David R.Pan, KaikeThomas, DanielWake, David A.Weijmans, Anne-MarieWestfall, Kyle B.Yan, RenbinWe measure λRe, a proxy for galaxy specific stellar angular momentum within one effective radius, and the ellipticity, ϵ, for about 2300 galaxies of all morphological types observed with integral field spectroscopy as part of the MaNGA survey, the largest such sample to date. We use the (λRe,ϵ) diagram to separate early-type galaxies into fast and slow rotators. We also visually classify each galaxy according to its optical morphology and two-dimensional stellar velocity field. Comparing these classifications to quantitative λRe measurements reveals tight relationships between angular momentum and galaxy structure. In order to account for atmospheric seeing, we use realistic models of galaxy kinematics to derive a general approximate analytic correction for λRe. Thanks to the size of the sample and the large number of massive galaxies, we unambiguously detect a clear bimodality in the (λRe,ϵ) diagram which may result from fundamental differences in galaxy assembly history. There is a sharp secondary density peak inside the region of the diagram with low λRe and ϵ < 0.4, previously suggested as the definition for slow rotators. Most of these galaxies are visually classified as non-regular rotators and have high velocity dispersion. The intrinsic bimodality must be stronger, as it tends to be smoothed by noise and inclination. The large sample of slow rotators allows us for the first time to unveil a secondary peak at +/-90 degrees in their distribution of the misalignments between the photometric and kinematic position angles. We confirm that genuine slow rotators start appearing above a stellar mass of 2 x 1011 M⊙ where a significant number of high-mass fast rotators also exist.Continuum reverberation mapping of the accretion disks in two Seyfert 1 galaxiesFausnaugh, M. M.Starkey, D. A.Horne, KeithKochanek, C. S.Peterson, B. M.Bentz, M. C.Denney, K. D.Grier, C. J.Grupe, D.Pogge, R. W.De Rosa, G.Adams, S. M.Barth, A. J.Beatty, Thomas G.Bhattacharjee, A.Borman, G. A.Boroson, T. A.Bottorff, M. C.Brown, Jacob E.Brown, Jonathan S.Brotherton, M. S.Coker, C. T.Crawford, S. M.Croxall, K. V.Eftekharzadeh, SarahEracleous, MichaelJoner, M. D.Henderson, C. B.Holoien, T. W. -S.Hutchison, T.Kaspi, ShaiKim, S.King, Anthea L.Li, MiaoLochhaas, CassandraMa, ZhiyuanMacInnis, F.Manne-Nicholas, E. R.Mason, M.Montuori, CarmenMosquera, AnaMudd, DaleMusso, R.Nazarov, S. V.Nguyen, M. L.Okhmat, D. N.Onken, ChristopherAOu-Yang, B.Pancoast, A.Pei, L.Penny, Matthew T.Poleski, RadosławRafter, StephenRomero-Colmenero, E.Runnoe, JessieSand, David J.Schimoia, Jaderson S.Sergeev, S. G.Shappee, B. J.Simonian, Gregory V.Somers, GarrettSpencer, M.Stevens, Daniel J.Tayar, JamieTreu, T.Valenti, StefanoVan Saders, J.Villanueva Jr, S.Villforth, C.Weiss, YanivWinkler, H.Zhu, W.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128052018-03-05T09:30:09Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZWe present optical continuum lags for two Seyfert 1 galaxies, MCG+08-11-011 and NGC 2617, using monitoring data from a reverberation mapping campaign carried out in 2014. Our light curves span the ugriz filters over four months, with median cadences of 1.0 and 0.6 days for MCG+08-11-011 and NGC 2617, respectively, combined with roughly daily X-ray and near-UV data from Swift for NGC 2617. We find lags consistent with geometrically thin accretion-disk models that predict a lag-wavelength relation of τ ∝ λ 4/3. However, the observed lags are larger than predictions based on standard thin-disk theory by factors of 3.3 for MCG+08-11-011 and 2.3 for NGC 2617. These differences can be explained if the mass accretion rates are larger than inferred from the optical luminosity by a factor of 4.3 in MCG+08-11-011 and a factor of 1.3 in NGC 2617, although uncertainty in the SMBH masses determines the significance of this result. While the X-ray variability in NGC 2617 precedes the UV/optical variability, the long (2.6 day) lag is problematic for coronal reprocessing models.
K.H.acknowledges support from STFC grant ST/M001296/1.
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZFausnaugh, M. M.Starkey, D. A.Horne, KeithKochanek, C. S.Peterson, B. M.Bentz, M. C.Denney, K. D.Grier, C. J.Grupe, D.Pogge, R. W.De Rosa, G.Adams, S. M.Barth, A. J.Beatty, Thomas G.Bhattacharjee, A.Borman, G. A.Boroson, T. A.Bottorff, M. C.Brown, Jacob E.Brown, Jonathan S.Brotherton, M. S.Coker, C. T.Crawford, S. M.Croxall, K. V.Eftekharzadeh, SarahEracleous, MichaelJoner, M. D.Henderson, C. B.Holoien, T. W. -S.Hutchison, T.Kaspi, ShaiKim, S.King, Anthea L.Li, MiaoLochhaas, CassandraMa, ZhiyuanMacInnis, F.Manne-Nicholas, E. R.Mason, M.Montuori, CarmenMosquera, AnaMudd, DaleMusso, R.Nazarov, S. V.Nguyen, M. L.Okhmat, D. N.Onken, ChristopherAOu-Yang, B.Pancoast, A.Pei, L.Penny, Matthew T.Poleski, RadosławRafter, StephenRomero-Colmenero, E.Runnoe, JessieSand, David J.Schimoia, Jaderson S.Sergeev, S. G.Shappee, B. J.Simonian, Gregory V.Somers, GarrettSpencer, M.Stevens, Daniel J.Tayar, JamieTreu, T.Valenti, StefanoVan Saders, J.Villanueva Jr, S.Villforth, C.Weiss, YanivWinkler, H.Zhu, W.We present optical continuum lags for two Seyfert 1 galaxies, MCG+08-11-011 and NGC 2617, using monitoring data from a reverberation mapping campaign carried out in 2014. Our light curves span the ugriz filters over four months, with median cadences of 1.0 and 0.6 days for MCG+08-11-011 and NGC 2617, respectively, combined with roughly daily X-ray and near-UV data from Swift for NGC 2617. We find lags consistent with geometrically thin accretion-disk models that predict a lag-wavelength relation of τ ∝ λ 4/3. However, the observed lags are larger than predictions based on standard thin-disk theory by factors of 3.3 for MCG+08-11-011 and 2.3 for NGC 2617. These differences can be explained if the mass accretion rates are larger than inferred from the optical luminosity by a factor of 4.3 in MCG+08-11-011 and a factor of 1.3 in NGC 2617, although uncertainty in the SMBH masses determines the significance of this result. While the X-ray variability in NGC 2617 precedes the UV/optical variability, the long (2.6 day) lag is problematic for coronal reprocessing models.Acceptability and perceived barriers and facilitators to creating a national research register to enable 'direct to patient' enrolment into research : the Scottish Health Research Register (SHARE)Grant, AileenUre, JennyNicolson, Donald JHanley, JanetSheikh, AzizMcKinstry, BrianSullivan, Frankhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128042018-02-28T00:16:14Z2013-10-18T00:00:00ZBACKGROUND: Difficulties with recruitment pose a major, increasingly recognised challenge to the viability of research. We sought to explore whether a register of volunteers interested in research participation, with data linkage to electronic health records to identify suitable research participants, would prove acceptable to healthcare staff, patients and researchers. METHODS: We undertook a qualitative study in which a maximum variation sampling approach was adopted. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with patients, general practitioners (GP), practice managers and health service researchers in two Scottish health boards. Analysis was primarily thematic to identify a range of issues and concerns for all stakeholder groups. RESULTS: The concept of a national research register was, in general, acceptable to all stakeholder groups and was widely regarded as beneficial for research and for society. Patients, however, highlighted a number of conditions which should be met in the design of a register to expedite confidence and facilitate recruitment. They also gave their perceptions on how a register should operate and be promoted, favouring a range of media. GPs and practice managers were primarily concerned with the security and confidentiality of patient data and the impact a register may have on their workload. Researchers were supportive of the initiative seeing advantages in more rapid access to a wider pool of patients. They did raise concerns that GPs may be able to block access to personal patient data held in general practice clinical systems and that the register may not be representative of the whole population. CONCLUSIONS: This work suggests that patients, healthcare staff and researchers have a favourable view of the potential benefits of a national register to identify people who are potentially eligible and willing to participate in health related research. It has highlighted a number of issues for the developers to incorporate in the design of research registers.
This work was supported in part by a grant from Scotland’s Chief Scientist Office (CZG/2/509) and additional support from NHS Tayside and NHS Lothian. AS is supported by a Harkness Fellowship in Health Care Policy and Practice from The Commonwealth Fund, a private independent foundation based in New York City.
2013-10-18T00:00:00ZGrant, AileenUre, JennyNicolson, Donald JHanley, JanetSheikh, AzizMcKinstry, BrianSullivan, FrankBACKGROUND: Difficulties with recruitment pose a major, increasingly recognised challenge to the viability of research. We sought to explore whether a register of volunteers interested in research participation, with data linkage to electronic health records to identify suitable research participants, would prove acceptable to healthcare staff, patients and researchers. METHODS: We undertook a qualitative study in which a maximum variation sampling approach was adopted. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with patients, general practitioners (GP), practice managers and health service researchers in two Scottish health boards. Analysis was primarily thematic to identify a range of issues and concerns for all stakeholder groups. RESULTS: The concept of a national research register was, in general, acceptable to all stakeholder groups and was widely regarded as beneficial for research and for society. Patients, however, highlighted a number of conditions which should be met in the design of a register to expedite confidence and facilitate recruitment. They also gave their perceptions on how a register should operate and be promoted, favouring a range of media. GPs and practice managers were primarily concerned with the security and confidentiality of patient data and the impact a register may have on their workload. Researchers were supportive of the initiative seeing advantages in more rapid access to a wider pool of patients. They did raise concerns that GPs may be able to block access to personal patient data held in general practice clinical systems and that the register may not be representative of the whole population. CONCLUSIONS: This work suggests that patients, healthcare staff and researchers have a favourable view of the potential benefits of a national register to identify people who are potentially eligible and willing to participate in health related research. It has highlighted a number of issues for the developers to incorporate in the design of research registers.The John Bryden memorial lecture : improving health with the community health index and developments in record linkageSullivan, Frankhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128032018-02-28T00:16:14Z2014-01-01T00:00:00ZDr. John Bryden was the executive officer of European Federation for Medical Informatics for a decade between 1998 and 2008. When he retired from active work within the federation, he was awarded an honorary fellowship. In one of his early papers from the 1960s, he described how some relatively novel machines called computers might replace the punched cards that were being used at the time. He saw, before many others, that computers could be used for the care of individual patients and even more so for groups of patients. He implemented a unique patient identifier (community health index) which has enabled Scotland to link electronic medical record data for clinical management of chronic disease deterministically. An example was the development of the Glasgow Coma Scale. One benefit of demonstrating significant value in projects such as this at an early stage of record linkage was that the governance framework for the use of data became relatively permissive. Another major success was diabetes care; it became possible to apply insights from the aggregate data to improve services and make them more efficient. Scotland has developed safe havens for data where not only the physical environment but also the people, mechanisms and projects are all subject to control to ensure safety and confidentiality. Similar moves are under way in Europe. TRANSFoRm (www.transformproject.eu) led by King's college in London is mainly focused on primary care data. Excellence in medical informatics is possible as a result of the work of its pioneers, including John Bryden's first paper suggesting that computers might be useful.
2014-01-01T00:00:00ZSullivan, FrankDr. John Bryden was the executive officer of European Federation for Medical Informatics for a decade between 1998 and 2008. When he retired from active work within the federation, he was awarded an honorary fellowship. In one of his early papers from the 1960s, he described how some relatively novel machines called computers might replace the punched cards that were being used at the time. He saw, before many others, that computers could be used for the care of individual patients and even more so for groups of patients. He implemented a unique patient identifier (community health index) which has enabled Scotland to link electronic medical record data for clinical management of chronic disease deterministically. An example was the development of the Glasgow Coma Scale. One benefit of demonstrating significant value in projects such as this at an early stage of record linkage was that the governance framework for the use of data became relatively permissive. Another major success was diabetes care; it became possible to apply insights from the aggregate data to improve services and make them more efficient. Scotland has developed safe havens for data where not only the physical environment but also the people, mechanisms and projects are all subject to control to ensure safety and confidentiality. Similar moves are under way in Europe. TRANSFoRm (www.transformproject.eu) led by King's college in London is mainly focused on primary care data. Excellence in medical informatics is possible as a result of the work of its pioneers, including John Bryden's first paper suggesting that computers might be useful.MUSE spectroscopy and deep observations of a unique compact JWST target, lensing cluster CLIOGriffiths, AlexConselice, Christopher J.Alpaslan, MehmetFrye, Brenda L.Diego, Jose M.Zitrin, AdiYan, HaojingMa, ZhiyuanBarone-Nugent, RobertBhatawdekar, RachanaDriver, Simon P.Robotham, Aaron S. G.Windhorst, Rogier A.Wyithe, J. Stuart B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/128022018-03-05T09:30:09Z2018-04-11T00:00:00ZWe present the results of a VLT MUSE/FORS2 and Spitzer survey of a unique compact lensing cluster CLIO at z = 0.42, discovered through the GAMA survey using spectroscopic redshifts. Compact and massive clusters such as this are understudied, but provide a unique prospective on dark matter distributions and for finding background lensed high-z galaxies. The CLIO cluster was identified for follow-up observations due to its almost unique combination of high-mass and dark matter halo concentration, as well as having observed lensing arcs from ground-based images. Using dual band optical and infra-red imaging from FORS2 and Spitzer, in combination with MUSE optical spectroscopy we identify 89 cluster members and find background sources out to z = 6.49. We describe the physical state of this cluster, finding a strong correlation between environment and galaxy spectral type. Under the assumption of an NFW profile, we measure the total mass of CLIO to be M200 = (4.49 ± 0.25) × 1014 M⊙. We build and present an initial strong-lensing model for this cluster, and measure a relatively low intracluster light (ICL) fraction of 7.21 ± 1.53 per cent through galaxy profile fitting. Due to its strong potential for lensing background galaxies and its low ICL, the CLIO cluster will be a target for our 110 h James Webb Space Telescope ‘Webb Medium-Deep Field’ (WMDF) GTO program.
2018-04-11T00:00:00ZGriffiths, AlexConselice, Christopher J.Alpaslan, MehmetFrye, Brenda L.Diego, Jose M.Zitrin, AdiYan, HaojingMa, ZhiyuanBarone-Nugent, RobertBhatawdekar, RachanaDriver, Simon P.Robotham, Aaron S. G.Windhorst, Rogier A.Wyithe, J. Stuart B.We present the results of a VLT MUSE/FORS2 and Spitzer survey of a unique compact lensing cluster CLIO at z = 0.42, discovered through the GAMA survey using spectroscopic redshifts. Compact and massive clusters such as this are understudied, but provide a unique prospective on dark matter distributions and for finding background lensed high-z galaxies. The CLIO cluster was identified for follow-up observations due to its almost unique combination of high-mass and dark matter halo concentration, as well as having observed lensing arcs from ground-based images. Using dual band optical and infra-red imaging from FORS2 and Spitzer, in combination with MUSE optical spectroscopy we identify 89 cluster members and find background sources out to z = 6.49. We describe the physical state of this cluster, finding a strong correlation between environment and galaxy spectral type. Under the assumption of an NFW profile, we measure the total mass of CLIO to be M200 = (4.49 ± 0.25) × 1014 M⊙. We build and present an initial strong-lensing model for this cluster, and measure a relatively low intracluster light (ICL) fraction of 7.21 ± 1.53 per cent through galaxy profile fitting. Due to its strong potential for lensing background galaxies and its low ICL, the CLIO cluster will be a target for our 110 h James Webb Space Telescope ‘Webb Medium-Deep Field’ (WMDF) GTO program.Fermiology and superconductivity of topological surface states in PdTe2Clark, Oliver JonNeat, Matthew JamesOkawa, K.Bawden, LewisMarković, IgorMazzola, FedericoFeng, JiaguiSunko, VeronikaRiley, Jonathon MarkMeevasana, W.Fuijii, J.Vobornik, IKim, T.Hoesch, M.Sasagawa, T.Wahl, Georg PeterBahramy, M.S.King, Philip Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128012018-03-04T00:33:15Z2018-02-23T00:00:00ZWe study the low-energy surface electronic structure of the transition-metal dichalcogenide superconductor PdTe2 by spin- and angle-resolved photoemission, scanning tunneling microscopy, and density-functional theory-based supercell calculations. Comparing PdTe2 with its sister compound PtSe2, we demonstrate how enhanced inter-layer hopping in the Te-based material drives a band inversion within the anti-bonding p -orbital manifold well above the Fermi level. We show how this mediates spin-polarised topological surface states which form rich multi-valley Fermi surfaces with complex spin textures. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy reveals type-II superconductivity at the surface, and moreover shows no evidence for an unconventional component of its superconducting order parameter, despite the presence of topological surface states.
We gratefully acknowledge support from the Leverhulme Trust, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, UK (Grant Nos. EP/M023427/1 and EP/I031014/1), the Royal Society. JC, MJN, LB, VS, and JMR acknowledge EPSRC for PhD studentship support through grant Nos. EP/K503162/1, EP/G03673X/1, EP/L505079/1, and EP/L015110/1.
2018-02-23T00:00:00ZClark, Oliver JonNeat, Matthew JamesOkawa, K.Bawden, LewisMarković, IgorMazzola, FedericoFeng, JiaguiSunko, VeronikaRiley, Jonathon MarkMeevasana, W.Fuijii, J.Vobornik, IKim, T.Hoesch, M.Sasagawa, T.Wahl, Georg PeterBahramy, M.S.King, Philip DavidWe study the low-energy surface electronic structure of the transition-metal dichalcogenide superconductor PdTe2 by spin- and angle-resolved photoemission, scanning tunneling microscopy, and density-functional theory-based supercell calculations. Comparing PdTe2 with its sister compound PtSe2, we demonstrate how enhanced inter-layer hopping in the Te-based material drives a band inversion within the anti-bonding p -orbital manifold well above the Fermi level. We show how this mediates spin-polarised topological surface states which form rich multi-valley Fermi surfaces with complex spin textures. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy reveals type-II superconductivity at the surface, and moreover shows no evidence for an unconventional component of its superconducting order parameter, despite the presence of topological surface states.Metabolism and hydrophilicity of the polarised ‘Janus face’ all-cis tetrafluorocyclohexyl ring, a candidate motif for drug discoveryRodil Garcia, AndreaBosisio, StefanoSalah Ayoup, MohammedQuinn, LauraCordes, David BradfordSlawin, Alexandra M. Z.Murphy, CormacMichel, JulienO'Hagan, Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/128002018-03-11T00:33:35Z2018-02-19T00:00:00ZThe metabolism and polarity of the all-cis tetra-fluorocyclohexane motif is explored in the context of its potential as a motif for inclusion in drug discovery programmes. Biotransformations of phenyl all-cis tetra-, tri- and di- fluoro cyclohexanes with the human metabolism model organism Cunninghamella elegans illustrates various hydroxylated products, but limited to benzylic hydroxylation for the phenyl all-cis tetrafluorocyclohexyl ring system. Evaluation of the lipophilicities (Log P) indicate a significant and progressive increase in polarity with increasing fluorination on the cyclohexane ring system. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that water associates much more closely with the hydrogen face of these Janus face cyclohexyl rings than the fluorine face owing to enhanced hydrogen bonding interactions with the polarised hydrogens and water.
This work was supported by the Initial Training Network, FLUOR21, funded by the FP7 Marie Curie Actions of the European Commission (FP7-PEOPLE-2013-ITN-607787). JM is supported by a University Research Fellowship from the Royal Society. The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Research Council under the EU 7th Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)/ERC No 336289.
2018-02-19T00:00:00ZRodil Garcia, AndreaBosisio, StefanoSalah Ayoup, MohammedQuinn, LauraCordes, David BradfordSlawin, Alexandra M. Z.Murphy, CormacMichel, JulienO'Hagan, DavidThe metabolism and polarity of the all-cis tetra-fluorocyclohexane motif is explored in the context of its potential as a motif for inclusion in drug discovery programmes. Biotransformations of phenyl all-cis tetra-, tri- and di- fluoro cyclohexanes with the human metabolism model organism Cunninghamella elegans illustrates various hydroxylated products, but limited to benzylic hydroxylation for the phenyl all-cis tetrafluorocyclohexyl ring system. Evaluation of the lipophilicities (Log P) indicate a significant and progressive increase in polarity with increasing fluorination on the cyclohexane ring system. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that water associates much more closely with the hydrogen face of these Janus face cyclohexyl rings than the fluorine face owing to enhanced hydrogen bonding interactions with the polarised hydrogens and water.Toward onset prevention of cognitive decline in adults with Down syndrome (the TOP-COG study) : study protocol for a randomized controlled trialCooper, Sally-AnnCaslake, MurielEvans, JonathanHassiotis, AngelaJahoda, AndrewMcConnachie, AlexMorrison, JillRing, HowardStarr, JohnStiles, CiaraSullivan, Frankhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127992018-02-28T00:16:15Z2014-06-03T00:00:00ZBACKGROUND: Early-onset dementia is common in Down syndrome adults, who have trisomy 21. The amyloid precursor protein gene is on chromosome 21, and so is over-expressed in Down syndrome, leading to amyloid β (Aβ) over-production, a major upstream pathway leading to Alzheimer disease (AD). Statins (microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors), have pleiotropic effects including potentially increasing brain amyloid clearance, making them plausible agents to reduce AD risk. Animal models, human observational studies, and small scale trials support this rationale, however, there are no AD primary prevention trials in Down syndrome adults. In this study we study aim to inform the design of a full-scale primary prevention trial. METHODS/DESIGN: TOP-COG is a feasibility and pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT), with a nested qualitative study, conducted in the general community. About 60 Down syndrome adults, aged ≥50 will be included. The intervention is oral simvastatin 40 mg at night for 12 months, versus placebo. The primary endpoint is recruitment and retention rates. Secondary endpoints are (1) tolerability and safety; (2) detection of the most sensitive neurocognitive instruments; (3) perceptions of Down syndrome adults and caregivers on whether to participate, and assessment experiences; (4) distributions of cognitive decline, adaptive behavior, general health/quality of life, service use, caregiver strain, and sample size implications; (5) whether Aβ42/Aβ40 is a cognitive decline biomarker. We will describe percentages recruited from each source, the number of contacts to achieve this, plus recruitment rate by general population size. We will calculate summary statistics with 90% confidence limits where appropriate, for each study outcome as a whole, by treatment group and in relation to baseline age, cognitive function, cholesterol and other characteristics. Changes over time will be summarized graphically. The sample size for a definitive RCT will be estimated under alternative assumptions. DISCUSSION: This study is important, as AD is a major problem for Down syndrome adults, for whom there are currently no effective preventions or treatments. It will also delineate the most suitable assessment instruments for this population. Recruitment of intellectually disabled adults is notoriously difficult, and we shall provide valuable information on this, informing future studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN Register ID: ISRCTN67338640 (17 November 2011).
This study is funded by the Chief Scientist Office, Scottish Government Health Department (reference: CZH/4/626). JS is funded by the NHS Lothian R&D Directorate.
2014-06-03T00:00:00ZCooper, Sally-AnnCaslake, MurielEvans, JonathanHassiotis, AngelaJahoda, AndrewMcConnachie, AlexMorrison, JillRing, HowardStarr, JohnStiles, CiaraSullivan, FrankBACKGROUND: Early-onset dementia is common in Down syndrome adults, who have trisomy 21. The amyloid precursor protein gene is on chromosome 21, and so is over-expressed in Down syndrome, leading to amyloid β (Aβ) over-production, a major upstream pathway leading to Alzheimer disease (AD). Statins (microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors), have pleiotropic effects including potentially increasing brain amyloid clearance, making them plausible agents to reduce AD risk. Animal models, human observational studies, and small scale trials support this rationale, however, there are no AD primary prevention trials in Down syndrome adults. In this study we study aim to inform the design of a full-scale primary prevention trial. METHODS/DESIGN: TOP-COG is a feasibility and pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT), with a nested qualitative study, conducted in the general community. About 60 Down syndrome adults, aged ≥50 will be included. The intervention is oral simvastatin 40 mg at night for 12 months, versus placebo. The primary endpoint is recruitment and retention rates. Secondary endpoints are (1) tolerability and safety; (2) detection of the most sensitive neurocognitive instruments; (3) perceptions of Down syndrome adults and caregivers on whether to participate, and assessment experiences; (4) distributions of cognitive decline, adaptive behavior, general health/quality of life, service use, caregiver strain, and sample size implications; (5) whether Aβ42/Aβ40 is a cognitive decline biomarker. We will describe percentages recruited from each source, the number of contacts to achieve this, plus recruitment rate by general population size. We will calculate summary statistics with 90% confidence limits where appropriate, for each study outcome as a whole, by treatment group and in relation to baseline age, cognitive function, cholesterol and other characteristics. Changes over time will be summarized graphically. The sample size for a definitive RCT will be estimated under alternative assumptions. DISCUSSION: This study is important, as AD is a major problem for Down syndrome adults, for whom there are currently no effective preventions or treatments. It will also delineate the most suitable assessment instruments for this population. Recruitment of intellectually disabled adults is notoriously difficult, and we shall provide valuable information on this, informing future studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN Register ID: ISRCTN67338640 (17 November 2011).Prediction of liver disease in patients whose liver function tests have been checked in primary care : model development and validation using population-based observational cohortsMcLernon, David JDonnan, Peter TSullivan, Frank MRoderick, PaulRosenberg, William MRyder, Steve DDillon, John Fhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127982018-02-28T00:16:13Z2014-06-02T00:00:00ZOBJECTIVE: To derive and validate a clinical prediction model to estimate the risk of liver disease diagnosis following liver function tests (LFTs) and to convert the model to a simplified scoring tool for use in primary care. DESIGN: Population-based observational cohort study of patients in Tayside Scotland identified as having their LFTs performed in primary care and followed for 2 years. Biochemistry data were linked to secondary care, prescriptions and mortality data to ascertain baseline characteristics of the derivation cohort. A separate validation cohort was obtained from 19 general practices across the rest of Scotland to externally validate the final model. SETTING: Primary care, Tayside, Scotland. PARTICIPANTS: Derivation cohort: LFT results from 310 511 patients. After exclusions (including: patients under 16 years, patients having initial LFTs measured in secondary care, bilirubin >35 μmol/L, liver complications within 6 weeks and history of a liver condition), the derivation cohort contained 95 977 patients with no clinically apparent liver condition. Validation cohort: after exclusions, this cohort contained 11 653 patients. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Diagnosis of a liver condition within 2 years. RESULTS: From the derivation cohort (n=95 977), 481 (0.5%) were diagnosed with a liver disease. The model showed good discrimination (C-statistic=0.78). Given the low prevalence of liver disease, the negative predictive values were high. Positive predictive values were low but rose to 20-30% for high-risk patients. CONCLUSIONS: This study successfully developed and validated a clinical prediction model and subsequent scoring tool, the Algorithm for Liver Function Investigations (ALFI), which can predict liver disease risk in patients with no clinically obvious liver disease who had their initial LFTs taken in primary care. ALFI can help general practitioners focus referral on a small subset of patients with higher predicted risk while continuing to address modifiable liver disease risk factors in those at lower risk.
This work was supported by the UK National Health Service Research & Development Programme Health Technology Assessment Programme (project number 03/38/02) and also by the Backett Weir Russell Career Development Fellowship, University of Aberdeen.
2014-06-02T00:00:00ZMcLernon, David JDonnan, Peter TSullivan, Frank MRoderick, PaulRosenberg, William MRyder, Steve DDillon, John FOBJECTIVE: To derive and validate a clinical prediction model to estimate the risk of liver disease diagnosis following liver function tests (LFTs) and to convert the model to a simplified scoring tool for use in primary care. DESIGN: Population-based observational cohort study of patients in Tayside Scotland identified as having their LFTs performed in primary care and followed for 2 years. Biochemistry data were linked to secondary care, prescriptions and mortality data to ascertain baseline characteristics of the derivation cohort. A separate validation cohort was obtained from 19 general practices across the rest of Scotland to externally validate the final model. SETTING: Primary care, Tayside, Scotland. PARTICIPANTS: Derivation cohort: LFT results from 310 511 patients. After exclusions (including: patients under 16 years, patients having initial LFTs measured in secondary care, bilirubin >35 μmol/L, liver complications within 6 weeks and history of a liver condition), the derivation cohort contained 95 977 patients with no clinically apparent liver condition. Validation cohort: after exclusions, this cohort contained 11 653 patients. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Diagnosis of a liver condition within 2 years. RESULTS: From the derivation cohort (n=95 977), 481 (0.5%) were diagnosed with a liver disease. The model showed good discrimination (C-statistic=0.78). Given the low prevalence of liver disease, the negative predictive values were high. Positive predictive values were low but rose to 20-30% for high-risk patients. CONCLUSIONS: This study successfully developed and validated a clinical prediction model and subsequent scoring tool, the Algorithm for Liver Function Investigations (ALFI), which can predict liver disease risk in patients with no clinically obvious liver disease who had their initial LFTs taken in primary care. ALFI can help general practitioners focus referral on a small subset of patients with higher predicted risk while continuing to address modifiable liver disease risk factors in those at lower risk.Using electronic health records to support clinical trials : a report on stakeholder engagement for EHR4CRMcCowan, ColinThomson, ElizabethSzmigielski, Cezary AKalra, DipakSullivan, Frank M.Prokosch, Hans-UlrichDugas, MartinFord, Ianhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127972018-02-28T00:16:12Z2015-01-01T00:00:00ZBACKGROUND: The conduct of clinical trials is increasingly challenging due to greater complexity and governance requirements as well as difficulties with recruitment and retention. Electronic Health Records for Clinical Research (EHR4CR) aims at improving the conduct of trials by using existing routinely collected data, but little is known about stakeholder views on data availability, information governance, and acceptable working practices. METHODS: Senior figures in healthcare organisations across Europe were provided with a description of the project and structured interviews were subsequently conducted to elicit their views. RESULTS: 37 structured interviewees in Germany, UK, Switzerland, and France indicated strong support for the proposed EHR4CR platform. All interviewees reported that using the platform for assessing feasibility would enhance the conduct of clinical trials and the majority also felt it would reduce workloads. Interviewees felt the platform could enhance trial recruitment and adverse event reporting but also felt it could raise either ethical or information governance concerns in their country. CONCLUSIONS: There was clear support for EHR4CR and a belief that it could reduce workloads and improve the conduct and quality of trials. However data security, privacy, and information governance issues would need to be carefully managed in the development of the platform.
The research leading to these results has received support from the Innovative Medicines Initiative Joint Undertaking under grant agreement number 115189, resources of which are composed of financial contribution from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007–2013) and EFPIA companies’ in kind contribution.
2015-01-01T00:00:00ZMcCowan, ColinThomson, ElizabethSzmigielski, Cezary AKalra, DipakSullivan, Frank M.Prokosch, Hans-UlrichDugas, MartinFord, IanBACKGROUND: The conduct of clinical trials is increasingly challenging due to greater complexity and governance requirements as well as difficulties with recruitment and retention. Electronic Health Records for Clinical Research (EHR4CR) aims at improving the conduct of trials by using existing routinely collected data, but little is known about stakeholder views on data availability, information governance, and acceptable working practices. METHODS: Senior figures in healthcare organisations across Europe were provided with a description of the project and structured interviews were subsequently conducted to elicit their views. RESULTS: 37 structured interviewees in Germany, UK, Switzerland, and France indicated strong support for the proposed EHR4CR platform. All interviewees reported that using the platform for assessing feasibility would enhance the conduct of clinical trials and the majority also felt it would reduce workloads. Interviewees felt the platform could enhance trial recruitment and adverse event reporting but also felt it could raise either ethical or information governance concerns in their country. CONCLUSIONS: There was clear support for EHR4CR and a belief that it could reduce workloads and improve the conduct and quality of trials. However data security, privacy, and information governance issues would need to be carefully managed in the development of the platform.The NAtional randomised controlled Trial of Tonsillectomy IN Adults (NATTINA) : a clinical and cost-effectiveness study: study protocol for a randomised control trialRubie, IsabelHaighton, CatherineO'Hara, JamesRousseau, NikkiSteen, NickStocken, Deborah DSullivan, FrankVale, LukeWilkes, ScottWilson, Janethttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127952018-02-28T00:16:12Z2015-06-06T00:00:00ZBACKGROUND: The role of tonsillectomy in the management of adult tonsillitis remains uncertain and UK regional variation in tonsillectomy rates persists. Patients, doctors and health policy makers wish to know the costs and benefits of tonsillectomy against conservative management and whether therapy can be better targeted to maximise benefits and minimise risks of surgery, hence maximising cost-effective use of resources. NATTINA incorporates the first attempt to map current NHS referral criteria against other metrics of tonsil disease severity. METHODS/DESIGN: A UK multi-centre, randomised, controlled trial for adults with recurrent tonsillitis to compare the clinical and cost-effectiveness of tonsillectomy versus conservative management. An initial feasibility study comprises qualitative interviews to investigate the practicality of the protocol, including willingness to randomise and be randomised. Approximately 20 otolaryngology staff, 10 GPs and 15 ENT patients will be recruited over 5 months in all 9 proposed main trial participating sites. A 6-month internal pilot will then recruit 72 patients across 6 of the 9 sites. Participants will be adults with recurrent acute tonsillitis referred by a GP to secondary care. Randomisation between tonsillectomy and conservative management will be according to a blocked allocation method in a 1:1 ratio stratified by centre and baseline disease severity. If the pilot is successful, the main trial will recruit a further 528 patients over 18 months in all 9 participating sites. All participants will be followed up for a total of 24 months, throughout which both primary and secondary outcome data will be collected. The primary outcome is the number of sore throat days experienced over the 24-month follow-up. The pilot and main trials include an embedded qualitative process evaluation. DISCUSSION: NATTINA is designed to evaluate the relative effectiveness and efficiency of tonsillectomy versus conservative management in patients with recurrent sore throat who are eligible for surgery. Most adult tonsil disease and surgery has an impact on economically active age groups, with individual and societal costs through loss of earnings and productivity. Avoidance of unnecessary operations and prioritisation of those individuals likely to gain most from tonsillectomy would reduce costs to the NHS and society. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN55284102, Date of Registration: 4 August 2014.
This project is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme (project number 12/146/06).
2015-06-06T00:00:00ZRubie, IsabelHaighton, CatherineO'Hara, JamesRousseau, NikkiSteen, NickStocken, Deborah DSullivan, FrankVale, LukeWilkes, ScottWilson, JanetBACKGROUND: The role of tonsillectomy in the management of adult tonsillitis remains uncertain and UK regional variation in tonsillectomy rates persists. Patients, doctors and health policy makers wish to know the costs and benefits of tonsillectomy against conservative management and whether therapy can be better targeted to maximise benefits and minimise risks of surgery, hence maximising cost-effective use of resources. NATTINA incorporates the first attempt to map current NHS referral criteria against other metrics of tonsil disease severity. METHODS/DESIGN: A UK multi-centre, randomised, controlled trial for adults with recurrent tonsillitis to compare the clinical and cost-effectiveness of tonsillectomy versus conservative management. An initial feasibility study comprises qualitative interviews to investigate the practicality of the protocol, including willingness to randomise and be randomised. Approximately 20 otolaryngology staff, 10 GPs and 15 ENT patients will be recruited over 5 months in all 9 proposed main trial participating sites. A 6-month internal pilot will then recruit 72 patients across 6 of the 9 sites. Participants will be adults with recurrent acute tonsillitis referred by a GP to secondary care. Randomisation between tonsillectomy and conservative management will be according to a blocked allocation method in a 1:1 ratio stratified by centre and baseline disease severity. If the pilot is successful, the main trial will recruit a further 528 patients over 18 months in all 9 participating sites. All participants will be followed up for a total of 24 months, throughout which both primary and secondary outcome data will be collected. The primary outcome is the number of sore throat days experienced over the 24-month follow-up. The pilot and main trials include an embedded qualitative process evaluation. DISCUSSION: NATTINA is designed to evaluate the relative effectiveness and efficiency of tonsillectomy versus conservative management in patients with recurrent sore throat who are eligible for surgery. Most adult tonsil disease and surgery has an impact on economically active age groups, with individual and societal costs through loss of earnings and productivity. Avoidance of unnecessary operations and prioritisation of those individuals likely to gain most from tonsillectomy would reduce costs to the NHS and society. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN55284102, Date of Registration: 4 August 2014.Multiple physical and mental health comorbidity in adults with intellectual disabilities : population-based cross-sectional analysisCooper, Sally-AnnMcLean, GaryGuthrie, BruceMcConnachie, AlexMercer, StewartSullivan, FrankMorrison, Jillhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127942018-03-18T02:30:05Z2015-08-27T00:00:00ZBACKGROUND: Adults with intellectual disabilities have increased early mortality compared with the general population. However, their extent of multimorbidity (two or more additional conditions) compared with the general population is unknown, particularly with regards to physical ill-health, as are associations between comorbidities, neighbourhood deprivation, and age. METHODS: We analysed primary health-care data on 1,424,378 adults registered with 314 representative Scottish practices. Data on intellectual disabilities, 32 physical, and six mental health conditions were extracted. We generated standardised prevalence rates by age-groups, gender, and neighbourhood deprivation, then calculated odds ratio (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI) for adults with intellectual disabilities compared to those without, for the prevalence, and number of condition. RESULTS: Eight thousand fourteen (0.56 %) had intellectual disabilities, of whom only 31.8 % had no other conditions compared to 51.6 % without intellectual disabilities (OR 0.26, 95 % 0.25-0.27). The intellectual disabilities group were significantly more likely to have more conditions, with the biggest difference found for three conditions (10.9 % versus 6.8 %; OR 2.28, 95 % CI 2.10-2.46). Fourteen physical conditions were significantly more prevalent, and four cardiovascular conditions occurred less frequently, as did any cancers, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Five of the six mental health conditions were significantly more prevalent. For the adults with intellectual disabilities, no gradient was seen in extent of multimorbidity with increasing neighbourhood deprivation; indeed findings were similar in the most affluent and most deprived areas. Co-morbidity increased with age but is highly prevalent at all ages, being similar at age 20-25 to 50-54 year olds in the general population. CONCLUSIONS: Multi-morbidity burden is greater, occurs at much earlier age, and the profile of health conditions differs, for adults with intellectual disabilities compared with the general population. There is no association with neighbourhood deprivation; people with intellectual disabilities need focussed services irrespective of where they live, and at a much earlier age than the general population. They require specific initiatives to reduce inequalities.
The original study which created the data was funded by Scottish Government Chief Scientist Office Applied Research Programme Grant 07/01.
2015-08-27T00:00:00ZCooper, Sally-AnnMcLean, GaryGuthrie, BruceMcConnachie, AlexMercer, StewartSullivan, FrankMorrison, JillBACKGROUND: Adults with intellectual disabilities have increased early mortality compared with the general population. However, their extent of multimorbidity (two or more additional conditions) compared with the general population is unknown, particularly with regards to physical ill-health, as are associations between comorbidities, neighbourhood deprivation, and age. METHODS: We analysed primary health-care data on 1,424,378 adults registered with 314 representative Scottish practices. Data on intellectual disabilities, 32 physical, and six mental health conditions were extracted. We generated standardised prevalence rates by age-groups, gender, and neighbourhood deprivation, then calculated odds ratio (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI) for adults with intellectual disabilities compared to those without, for the prevalence, and number of condition. RESULTS: Eight thousand fourteen (0.56 %) had intellectual disabilities, of whom only 31.8 % had no other conditions compared to 51.6 % without intellectual disabilities (OR 0.26, 95 % 0.25-0.27). The intellectual disabilities group were significantly more likely to have more conditions, with the biggest difference found for three conditions (10.9 % versus 6.8 %; OR 2.28, 95 % CI 2.10-2.46). Fourteen physical conditions were significantly more prevalent, and four cardiovascular conditions occurred less frequently, as did any cancers, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Five of the six mental health conditions were significantly more prevalent. For the adults with intellectual disabilities, no gradient was seen in extent of multimorbidity with increasing neighbourhood deprivation; indeed findings were similar in the most affluent and most deprived areas. Co-morbidity increased with age but is highly prevalent at all ages, being similar at age 20-25 to 50-54 year olds in the general population. CONCLUSIONS: Multi-morbidity burden is greater, occurs at much earlier age, and the profile of health conditions differs, for adults with intellectual disabilities compared with the general population. There is no association with neighbourhood deprivation; people with intellectual disabilities need focussed services irrespective of where they live, and at a much earlier age than the general population. They require specific initiatives to reduce inequalities.Affine rigidity and conics at infinityConnelly, RobertGortler, Steven J.Theran, Louishttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127922018-02-28T00:16:00Z2017-02-26T00:00:00ZWe prove that if a framework of a graph is neighborhood affine rigid in d-dimensions (or has the stronger property of having an equilibrium stress matrix of rank n — d — 1) then it has an affine flex (an affine, but non Euclidean, transform of space that preserves all of the edge lengths) if and only if the framework is ruled on a single quadric. This strengthens and also simplifies a related result by Alfakih. It also allows us to prove that the property of super stability is invariant with respect to projective transforms and also to the coning and slicing operations. Finally this allows us to unify some previous results on the Strong Arnold Property of matrices.
RC is partially supported by NSF grant DMS-1564493. SJG is partially supported by NSF grant DMS-1564473.
2017-02-26T00:00:00ZConnelly, RobertGortler, Steven J.Theran, LouisWe prove that if a framework of a graph is neighborhood affine rigid in d-dimensions (or has the stronger property of having an equilibrium stress matrix of rank n — d — 1) then it has an affine flex (an affine, but non Euclidean, transform of space that preserves all of the edge lengths) if and only if the framework is ruled on a single quadric. This strengthens and also simplifies a related result by Alfakih. It also allows us to prove that the property of super stability is invariant with respect to projective transforms and also to the coning and slicing operations. Finally this allows us to unify some previous results on the Strong Arnold Property of matrices.Flexible glass hybridized colloidal quantum dots for Gb/s visible light communicationsFoucher, C.Sufyan, Mohamed IslimGuilhabert, B.Videv, S.Rajbhandari, S.Gomez Diaz, A.Chun, H.Vithanage, Chiranthika Dimali AmarasingheTurnbull, Graham AlexanderSamuel, Ifor David WilliamFaulkner, G.O’Brien, D. C.Hass, H.Laurand, N.Dawson, M. D.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127912018-03-04T02:30:51Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZColor converting films of colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) encapsulated with flexible glass are integrated with microsize GaN LEDs (μLEDs) in order to form optical sources for high-speed visible light communications (VLC). VLC is an emerging technology that uses white and/or colored light from LEDs to combine illumination and display functions with the transmission of data. The flexible glass/CQD format addresses the issue of limited modulation speed of typical phosphor-converted LEDs while enhancing the photostability of the color converters and facilitating their integration with the μLEDs. These structures are less than 70 μm in total thickness and are directly placed in contact with the polished sapphire substrate of 450-nm-emitting μLEDs. Blue-to-green, blue-to-orange and blue-to-red conversion with respective forward optical power conversion efficiencies of 13%, 12% and 5.5% are reported. In turn, free-space optical communications up to 1.4 Gb/s VLC is demonstrated. Results show that CQD-converted LEDs pave the way for practical digital lighting/displays with multi-Gb/s capability.
Funding: EPSRC through the Program grant ’Ultra-parallel visible light communications (UP-VLC)’ (EP/K00042X/1).
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZFoucher, C.Sufyan, Mohamed IslimGuilhabert, B.Videv, S.Rajbhandari, S.Gomez Diaz, A.Chun, H.Vithanage, Chiranthika Dimali AmarasingheTurnbull, Graham AlexanderSamuel, Ifor David WilliamFaulkner, G.O’Brien, D. C.Hass, H.Laurand, N.Dawson, M. D.Color converting films of colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) encapsulated with flexible glass are integrated with microsize GaN LEDs (μLEDs) in order to form optical sources for high-speed visible light communications (VLC). VLC is an emerging technology that uses white and/or colored light from LEDs to combine illumination and display functions with the transmission of data. The flexible glass/CQD format addresses the issue of limited modulation speed of typical phosphor-converted LEDs while enhancing the photostability of the color converters and facilitating their integration with the μLEDs. These structures are less than 70 μm in total thickness and are directly placed in contact with the polished sapphire substrate of 450-nm-emitting μLEDs. Blue-to-green, blue-to-orange and blue-to-red conversion with respective forward optical power conversion efficiencies of 13%, 12% and 5.5% are reported. In turn, free-space optical communications up to 1.4 Gb/s VLC is demonstrated. Results show that CQD-converted LEDs pave the way for practical digital lighting/displays with multi-Gb/s capability.Reply to 'Chimpanzee helping is real, not a byproduct'Jensen, KeithTennie, ClaudioCall, Josephttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127902018-03-09T12:30:04Z2018-02-12T00:00:00ZJ.C. was supported in part by the European Research Council under the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)/ERC grant agreement no. 609819, project SOMICS.
2018-02-12T00:00:00ZJensen, KeithTennie, ClaudioCall, JosepExperimental nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis are ameliorated by pharmacological activation of Nrf2 (NF-E2-related factor 2)Sharma, Ritu S.Harrison, David J.Kisielewski, DorothyCassidy, Diane M.McNeilly, Alison D.Gallagher, Jennifer R.Walsh, Shaun V.Honda, TadashiMcCrimmon, Rory J.Dinkova-Kostova, Albena T.Ashford, Michael L.J.Dillon, John F.Hayes, John D.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127892018-02-27T00:16:23Z2017-12-13T00:00:00ZBackground & Aims: Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with oxidative stress. We surmised that pharmacological activation of NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) using the acetylenic tricyclic bis(cyano-enone) TBE-31 would suppress NASH because Nrf2 is a transcriptional master regulator of intracellular redox homeostasis. Methods: Nrf2+/+ and Nrf2-/- C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat plus fructose (HFFr) or regular chow (RC) diet for 16 weeks or 30 weeks, and then treated for the final 6 weeks, whilst still being fed the same HFFr or RC diets, with either TBE-31 or DMSO vehicle control. Measures of whole body glucose homeostasis, histological assessment of liver, and biochemical and molecular measurements of steatosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis and oxidative stress were performed in livers from these animals. Results: TBE-31−treatment reversed insulin resistance in HFFr-fed wild-type mice, but not in HFFr-fed Nrf2-null mice. TBE-31−treatment of HFFr-fed wild-type mice substantially decreased liver steatosis and expression of lipid synthesis genes, whilst increasing hepatic expression of fatty acid oxidation and lipoprotein assembly genes. Also, TBE-31−treatment decreased ER stress, expression of inflammation genes, and markers of apoptosis, fibrosis and oxidative stress in the livers of HFFr-fed wild-type mice. By comparison, TBE-31 did not decrease steatosis, ER stress, lipogenesis, inflammation, fibrosis or oxidative stress in livers of HFFr-fed Nrf2-null mice. Conclusions: Pharmacological activation of Nrf2 in mice that had already been rendered obese and insulin resistant reversed insulin resistance, suppressed hepatic steatosis, and mitigated against NASH and liver fibrosis, effects that we principally attribute to inhibition of ER, inflammatory and oxidative stress.
Funding: Supported by grants MR/J001465/1 (JDH, MLJA, JFD and RJMcC) and MR/N009851/1 (JDH, MLJA, ATD-K and DJH) from the Medical Research Council of the UK and grants from Stony Brook Foundation and Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (TH)
2017-12-13T00:00:00ZSharma, Ritu S.Harrison, David J.Kisielewski, DorothyCassidy, Diane M.McNeilly, Alison D.Gallagher, Jennifer R.Walsh, Shaun V.Honda, TadashiMcCrimmon, Rory J.Dinkova-Kostova, Albena T.Ashford, Michael L.J.Dillon, John F.Hayes, John D.Background & Aims: Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with oxidative stress. We surmised that pharmacological activation of NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) using the acetylenic tricyclic bis(cyano-enone) TBE-31 would suppress NASH because Nrf2 is a transcriptional master regulator of intracellular redox homeostasis. Methods: Nrf2+/+ and Nrf2-/- C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat plus fructose (HFFr) or regular chow (RC) diet for 16 weeks or 30 weeks, and then treated for the final 6 weeks, whilst still being fed the same HFFr or RC diets, with either TBE-31 or DMSO vehicle control. Measures of whole body glucose homeostasis, histological assessment of liver, and biochemical and molecular measurements of steatosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis and oxidative stress were performed in livers from these animals. Results: TBE-31−treatment reversed insulin resistance in HFFr-fed wild-type mice, but not in HFFr-fed Nrf2-null mice. TBE-31−treatment of HFFr-fed wild-type mice substantially decreased liver steatosis and expression of lipid synthesis genes, whilst increasing hepatic expression of fatty acid oxidation and lipoprotein assembly genes. Also, TBE-31−treatment decreased ER stress, expression of inflammation genes, and markers of apoptosis, fibrosis and oxidative stress in the livers of HFFr-fed wild-type mice. By comparison, TBE-31 did not decrease steatosis, ER stress, lipogenesis, inflammation, fibrosis or oxidative stress in livers of HFFr-fed Nrf2-null mice. Conclusions: Pharmacological activation of Nrf2 in mice that had already been rendered obese and insulin resistant reversed insulin resistance, suppressed hepatic steatosis, and mitigated against NASH and liver fibrosis, effects that we principally attribute to inhibition of ER, inflammatory and oxidative stress.Streaming motions and kinematic distances to molecular cloudsFox, F. G. RamonBonnell, Ian A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127882018-03-04T00:33:14Z2018-02-21T00:00:00ZWe present high-resolution smoothed particle hydrodynamics simulations of a region of gas flowing in a spiral arm and identify dense gas clouds to investigate their kinematics with respect to a Milky Way model. We find that, on average, the gas in the arms can have a net radial streaming motion of vR ≈ -9 km s-1 and rotate approximate to 6 km s-1 slower than the circular velocity. This translates to average peculiar motions towards the Galaxy centre and opposite to Galactic rotation. These results may be sensitive to the assumed spiral arm perturbation, which is ≈ 3 per cent of the disc potential in our model. We compare the actual distance and the kinematic estimate and we find that streaming motions introduce systematic offsets of ≈ 1 kpc. We find that the distance error can be as large as ± 2 kpc, and the recovered cloud positions have distributions that can extend significantly into the inter-arm regions. We conclude that this poses a difficulty in tracing spiral arm structure in molecular cloud surveys.
FGR-F and IAB gratefully acknowledge support from the ERC Advanced Grant ECOGAL project, grant agreement 291227, funded by the European Research Council under ERC-2011-ADG.
2018-02-21T00:00:00ZFox, F. G. RamonBonnell, Ian A.We present high-resolution smoothed particle hydrodynamics simulations of a region of gas flowing in a spiral arm and identify dense gas clouds to investigate their kinematics with respect to a Milky Way model. We find that, on average, the gas in the arms can have a net radial streaming motion of vR ≈ -9 km s-1 and rotate approximate to 6 km s-1 slower than the circular velocity. This translates to average peculiar motions towards the Galaxy centre and opposite to Galactic rotation. These results may be sensitive to the assumed spiral arm perturbation, which is ≈ 3 per cent of the disc potential in our model. We compare the actual distance and the kinematic estimate and we find that streaming motions introduce systematic offsets of ≈ 1 kpc. We find that the distance error can be as large as ± 2 kpc, and the recovered cloud positions have distributions that can extend significantly into the inter-arm regions. We conclude that this poses a difficulty in tracing spiral arm structure in molecular cloud surveys.The open flux evolution of a solar-mass star on the main sequenceSee, V.Jardine, M.Vidotto, A. A.Donati, J. -F.Saikia, S. BoroFares, R.Folsom, C. P.Jeffers, S. V.Marsden, S. C.Morin, J.Petit, P.BCool Collaborationhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127872018-03-18T00:33:12Z2018-02-11T00:00:00ZMagnetic activity is known to be correlated to the rotation period for moderately active main-sequence solar-like stars. In turn, the stellar rotation period evolves as a result of magnetized stellar winds that carry away angular momentum. Understanding the interplay between magnetic activity and stellar rotation is therefore a central task for stellar astrophysics. Angular momentum evolution models typically employ spin-down torques that are formulated in terms of the surface magnetic field strength. However, these formulations fail to account for the magnetic field geometry, unlike those that are expressed in terms of the open flux, i.e. the magnetic flux along which stellar winds flow. In this work, we model the angular momentum evolution of main-sequence solar-mass stars using a torque law formulated in terms of the open flux. This is done using a potential field source surface model in conjunction with the Zeeman-Doppler magnetograms of a sample of roughly solar-mass stars. We explore how the open flux of these stars varies with stellar rotation and choice of source surface radii. We also explore the effect of field geometry by using two methods of determining the open flux. The first method only accounts for the dipole component while the second accounts for the full set of spherical harmonics available in the Zeeman-Doppler magnetogram. We find only a small difference between the two methods, demonstrating that the open flux, and indeed the spin-down, of main-sequence solar-mass stars is likely dominated by the dipolar component of the magnetic field.
VS acknowledges support from a Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC) post-doctoral fellowship and the European Research Council Consolidator grant AWESoMeStars. SBS and SVJ acknowledge research funding by the Deutsche Forchungsgemeinschaft (DFG) under grant SFB, project A16. RF acknowledges financial support by WOW from INAF through the Progetti Premiali funding scheme of the Italian Ministry of Education, University, and Research. This study was supported by the grant ANR 2011 Blanc SIMI5-6 020 01 ‘Toupies: Towards understanding the spin evolution of stars’ (http://ipag.osug.fr/Anr_Toupies/).
2018-02-11T00:00:00ZSee, V.Jardine, M.Vidotto, A. A.Donati, J. -F.Saikia, S. BoroFares, R.Folsom, C. P.Jeffers, S. V.Marsden, S. C.Morin, J.Petit, P.BCool CollaborationMagnetic activity is known to be correlated to the rotation period for moderately active main-sequence solar-like stars. In turn, the stellar rotation period evolves as a result of magnetized stellar winds that carry away angular momentum. Understanding the interplay between magnetic activity and stellar rotation is therefore a central task for stellar astrophysics. Angular momentum evolution models typically employ spin-down torques that are formulated in terms of the surface magnetic field strength. However, these formulations fail to account for the magnetic field geometry, unlike those that are expressed in terms of the open flux, i.e. the magnetic flux along which stellar winds flow. In this work, we model the angular momentum evolution of main-sequence solar-mass stars using a torque law formulated in terms of the open flux. This is done using a potential field source surface model in conjunction with the Zeeman-Doppler magnetograms of a sample of roughly solar-mass stars. We explore how the open flux of these stars varies with stellar rotation and choice of source surface radii. We also explore the effect of field geometry by using two methods of determining the open flux. The first method only accounts for the dipole component while the second accounts for the full set of spherical harmonics available in the Zeeman-Doppler magnetogram. We find only a small difference between the two methods, demonstrating that the open flux, and indeed the spin-down, of main-sequence solar-mass stars is likely dominated by the dipolar component of the magnetic field.Microhydration and the enhanced acidity of free radicalsWalton, John Christopherhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127862018-03-04T02:31:01Z2018-02-14T00:00:00ZRecent theoretical research employing a continuum solvent model predicted that radical centers would enhance the acidity (RED-shift) of certain proton-donor molecules. Microhydration studies employing a DFT method are reported here with the aim of establishing the effect of the solvent micro-structure on the acidity of radicals with and without RED-shifts. Microhydration cluster structures were obtained for carboxyl, carboxy-ethynyl, carboxy-methyl, and hydroperoxyl radicals. The numbers of water molecules needed to induce spontaneous ionization were determined. The hydration clusters formed primarily round the CO2 units of the carboxylate-containing radicals. Only 4 or 5 water molecules were needed to induce ionization of carboxyl and carboxy-ethynyl radicals, thus corroborating their large RED-shifts.
The author thanks EaStCHEM for financial support.
2018-02-14T00:00:00ZWalton, John ChristopherRecent theoretical research employing a continuum solvent model predicted that radical centers would enhance the acidity (RED-shift) of certain proton-donor molecules. Microhydration studies employing a DFT method are reported here with the aim of establishing the effect of the solvent micro-structure on the acidity of radicals with and without RED-shifts. Microhydration cluster structures were obtained for carboxyl, carboxy-ethynyl, carboxy-methyl, and hydroperoxyl radicals. The numbers of water molecules needed to induce spontaneous ionization were determined. The hydration clusters formed primarily round the CO2 units of the carboxylate-containing radicals. Only 4 or 5 water molecules were needed to induce ionization of carboxyl and carboxy-ethynyl radicals, thus corroborating their large RED-shifts.Simulating radio emission from low-mass starsLlama, JoeJardine, Moira M.Wood, KennethHallinan, GreggMorin, Julienhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127852018-03-04T02:31:02Z2018-02-06T00:00:00ZUnderstanding the origins of stellar radio emission can provide invaluable insight into the strength and geometry of stellar magnetic fields and the resultant space weather environment experienced by exoplanets. Here, we present the first model capable of predicting radio emission through the electron cyclotron maser instability using observed stellar magnetic maps of low-mass stars. We determine the structure of the coronal magnetic field and plasma using spectropolarimetric observations of the surface magnetic fields and the X-ray emission measure. We then model the emission of photons from the locations within the corona that satisfy the conditions for electron cyclotron maser emission. Our model predicts the frequency and intensity of radio photons from within the stellar corona. We have benchmarked our model against the low-mass star V374 Peg. This star has both radio observations from the Very Large Array and a nearly simultaneous magnetic map. Using our model we are able to fit the radio observations of V374 Peg, providing additional evidence that the radio emission observed from low-mass stars may originate from the electron cyclotron maser instability. Our model can now be extended to all stars with observed magnetic maps to predict the expected frequency and variability of stellar radio emission in an effort to understand and guide future radio observations of low-mass stars.
M.M.J. acknowledges support from STFC grant ST/M001296/1.
2018-02-06T00:00:00ZLlama, JoeJardine, Moira M.Wood, KennethHallinan, GreggMorin, JulienUnderstanding the origins of stellar radio emission can provide invaluable insight into the strength and geometry of stellar magnetic fields and the resultant space weather environment experienced by exoplanets. Here, we present the first model capable of predicting radio emission through the electron cyclotron maser instability using observed stellar magnetic maps of low-mass stars. We determine the structure of the coronal magnetic field and plasma using spectropolarimetric observations of the surface magnetic fields and the X-ray emission measure. We then model the emission of photons from the locations within the corona that satisfy the conditions for electron cyclotron maser emission. Our model predicts the frequency and intensity of radio photons from within the stellar corona. We have benchmarked our model against the low-mass star V374 Peg. This star has both radio observations from the Very Large Array and a nearly simultaneous magnetic map. Using our model we are able to fit the radio observations of V374 Peg, providing additional evidence that the radio emission observed from low-mass stars may originate from the electron cyclotron maser instability. Our model can now be extended to all stars with observed magnetic maps to predict the expected frequency and variability of stellar radio emission in an effort to understand and guide future radio observations of low-mass stars.The VIMOS Public Extragalactic Redshift Survey (VIPERS) : full spectroscopic data and auxiliary information release (PDR-2)Scodeggio, M.Guzzo, L.Garilli, B.Granett, B. R.Bolzonella, M.de la Torre, S.Abbas, U.Adami, C.Arnouts, S.Bottini, D.Cappi, A.Coupon, J.Cucciati, O.Davidzon, I.Franzetti, P.Fritz, A.Iovino, A.Krywult, J.Le Brun, V.Le Fèvre, O.Maccagni, D.Małek, K.Marchetti, A.Marulli, F.Polletta, M.Pollo, A.Tasca, L. A. M.Tojeiro, R.Vergani, D.Zanichelli, A.Bel, J.Branchini, E.De Lucia, G.Ilbert, O.McCracken, H. J.Moutard, T.Peacock, J. A.Zamorani, G.Burden, A.Fumana, M.Jullo, E.Marinoni, C.Mellier, Y.Moscardini, L.Percival, W. J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127842018-03-18T02:30:32Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZWe present the full public data release (PDR-2) of the VIMOS Public Extragalactic Redshift Survey (VIPERS), performed at the ESO VLT. We release redshifts, spectra, CFHTLS magnitudes and ancillary information (as masks and weights) for a complete sample of 86 775 galaxies (plus 4732 other objects, including stars and serendipitous galaxies); we also include their full photometrically-selected parent catalogue. The sample is magnitude limited to iAB ≤ 22.5, with an additional colour-colour pre-selection devised as to exclude galaxies at z <0.5. This practically doubles the effective sampling of the VIMOS spectrograph over the range 0.5 <z <1.2 (reaching 47% onaverage), yielding a final median local galaxy density close to 5× 10-3h3 Mpc-3. The total area spanned by the final data set is ≃ 23.5 deg2, corresponding to 288 VIMOS fields with marginal overlaps, split over two regions within the CFHTLS-Wide W1 and W4 equatorial fields (at RA ≃2 and ≃ 22 h, respectively). Spectra were observed at a resolution R = 220, covering a wavelength range 5500-9500 Å. Data reduction and redshift measurements were performed through a fully automated pipeline; all redshift determinations were then visually validated and assigned a quality flag. Measurements with a quality flag ≥ 2 are shown to have a confidence level of 96% or larger and make up 88% of all measured galaxy redshifts (76 552 out of 86 775), constituting the VIPERS prime catalogue for statistical investigations. For this sample the rms redshift error, estimated using repeated measurements of about3 000 galaxies, is found to be σz = 0.00054(1 + z). All data are available at http://vipers.inaf.itand on the ESO Archive.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZScodeggio, M.Guzzo, L.Garilli, B.Granett, B. R.Bolzonella, M.de la Torre, S.Abbas, U.Adami, C.Arnouts, S.Bottini, D.Cappi, A.Coupon, J.Cucciati, O.Davidzon, I.Franzetti, P.Fritz, A.Iovino, A.Krywult, J.Le Brun, V.Le Fèvre, O.Maccagni, D.Małek, K.Marchetti, A.Marulli, F.Polletta, M.Pollo, A.Tasca, L. A. M.Tojeiro, R.Vergani, D.Zanichelli, A.Bel, J.Branchini, E.De Lucia, G.Ilbert, O.McCracken, H. J.Moutard, T.Peacock, J. A.Zamorani, G.Burden, A.Fumana, M.Jullo, E.Marinoni, C.Mellier, Y.Moscardini, L.Percival, W. J.We present the full public data release (PDR-2) of the VIMOS Public Extragalactic Redshift Survey (VIPERS), performed at the ESO VLT. We release redshifts, spectra, CFHTLS magnitudes and ancillary information (as masks and weights) for a complete sample of 86 775 galaxies (plus 4732 other objects, including stars and serendipitous galaxies); we also include their full photometrically-selected parent catalogue. The sample is magnitude limited to iAB ≤ 22.5, with an additional colour-colour pre-selection devised as to exclude galaxies at z <0.5. This practically doubles the effective sampling of the VIMOS spectrograph over the range 0.5 <z <1.2 (reaching 47% onaverage), yielding a final median local galaxy density close to 5× 10-3h3 Mpc-3. The total area spanned by the final data set is ≃ 23.5 deg2, corresponding to 288 VIMOS fields with marginal overlaps, split over two regions within the CFHTLS-Wide W1 and W4 equatorial fields (at RA ≃2 and ≃ 22 h, respectively). Spectra were observed at a resolution R = 220, covering a wavelength range 5500-9500 Å. Data reduction and redshift measurements were performed through a fully automated pipeline; all redshift determinations were then visually validated and assigned a quality flag. Measurements with a quality flag ≥ 2 are shown to have a confidence level of 96% or larger and make up 88% of all measured galaxy redshifts (76 552 out of 86 775), constituting the VIPERS prime catalogue for statistical investigations. For this sample the rms redshift error, estimated using repeated measurements of about3 000 galaxies, is found to be σz = 0.00054(1 + z). All data are available at http://vipers.inaf.itand on the ESO Archive.Trial Forge Guidance 1 : what is a Study Within A Trial (SWAT)?Treweek, ShaunBevan, SimonBower, PeterCampbell, MarionChristie, JacquieClarke, MikeCollett, CliveCotton, SeonaidhDevane, DeclanEl Feky, AdelFlemyng, EllaGalvin, SandraGardner, HeidiGillies, KatieJansen, JanLittleford, RobertaParker, AdwoaRamsay, CraigRestrup, LynneSullivan, FrankTorgerson, DavidTremain, LizWestmore, MatthewWilliamson, Paula Rhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127832018-03-04T02:31:02Z2018-02-23T00:00:00ZRandomised trials are a central component of all evidence-informed health care systems and the evidence coming from them helps to support health care users, health professionals and others to make more informed decisions about treatment. The evidence available to trialists to support decisions on design, conduct and reporting of randomised trials is, however, sparse. Trial Forge is an initiative that aims to increase the evidence base for trial decision-making and in doing so, to improve trial efficiency. One way to fill gaps in evidence is to run Studies Within A Trial, or SWATs. This guidance document provides a brief definition of SWATs, an explanation of why they are important and some practical 'top tips' that come from existing experience of doing SWATs. We hope the guidance will be useful to trialists, methodologists, funders, approvals agencies and others in making clear what a SWAT is, as well as what is involved in doing one.
The work described here was funded in part by the UK Network of MRC Hubs for Trials Methodology Research and the Irish Trials Methodology Research Network.
2018-02-23T00:00:00ZTreweek, ShaunBevan, SimonBower, PeterCampbell, MarionChristie, JacquieClarke, MikeCollett, CliveCotton, SeonaidhDevane, DeclanEl Feky, AdelFlemyng, EllaGalvin, SandraGardner, HeidiGillies, KatieJansen, JanLittleford, RobertaParker, AdwoaRamsay, CraigRestrup, LynneSullivan, FrankTorgerson, DavidTremain, LizWestmore, MatthewWilliamson, Paula RRandomised trials are a central component of all evidence-informed health care systems and the evidence coming from them helps to support health care users, health professionals and others to make more informed decisions about treatment. The evidence available to trialists to support decisions on design, conduct and reporting of randomised trials is, however, sparse. Trial Forge is an initiative that aims to increase the evidence base for trial decision-making and in doing so, to improve trial efficiency. One way to fill gaps in evidence is to run Studies Within A Trial, or SWATs. This guidance document provides a brief definition of SWATs, an explanation of why they are important and some practical 'top tips' that come from existing experience of doing SWATs. We hope the guidance will be useful to trialists, methodologists, funders, approvals agencies and others in making clear what a SWAT is, as well as what is involved in doing one.Unidimensional scales for fears of cancer recurrence and their psychometric properties : the FCR4 and FCR7Humphris, G. M.Watson, E.Sharpe, M.Ozakinci, G.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127822018-03-18T02:30:27Z2018-02-09T00:00:00ZBackground: The assessment of fear of recurrence (FCR) is crucial for understanding an important psychological state in patients diagnosed and treated for cancer. The study aim was to determine psychometric details of a seven question self-report scale (FCR7) and a short form (FCR4) based upon items already used in various extensive measures of FCR. Methods: Two consecutive samples of patients (breast and colorectal) were recruited from a single specialist cancer centre. The survey instrument contained the FCR7 items, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and demographic details. Clinical information was obtained from patient hospital records. Statistical analyses were performed using classical test and item response theory approaches, to demonstrate unidimensional factor structure and testing key parameters. Construct validity was inspected through nomological and theoretical prediction. Results: Internal consistency was demonstrated by alpha coefficients (FCR4: 0.93 and FCR7: 0.92). Both scales (FCR7 & FCR4) were associated with the HADs subscales as predicted. Patients who experienced chemotherapy, minor aches/pains, thought avoidance of cancer and high cancer risk belief were more fearful. Detailed inspection of item responses profile provided some support for measurement properties of scales. Conclusion: The internal consistency, and pattern of key associations and discriminability indices provided positive psychometric evidence for these scales. The brief measures of FCR may be considered for audit, screening or routine use in clinical service and research investigations.
Funding: Support was received from SUPAC (NCRI) Early Career Fund to complete this study. NCRI Supportive & Palliative Care (SuPaC) Research Collaboratives Capacity Building Grant Scheme: G Ozakinci (PI), G Humphris, M Sharpe.
2018-02-09T00:00:00ZHumphris, G. M.Watson, E.Sharpe, M.Ozakinci, G.Background: The assessment of fear of recurrence (FCR) is crucial for understanding an important psychological state in patients diagnosed and treated for cancer. The study aim was to determine psychometric details of a seven question self-report scale (FCR7) and a short form (FCR4) based upon items already used in various extensive measures of FCR. Methods: Two consecutive samples of patients (breast and colorectal) were recruited from a single specialist cancer centre. The survey instrument contained the FCR7 items, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and demographic details. Clinical information was obtained from patient hospital records. Statistical analyses were performed using classical test and item response theory approaches, to demonstrate unidimensional factor structure and testing key parameters. Construct validity was inspected through nomological and theoretical prediction. Results: Internal consistency was demonstrated by alpha coefficients (FCR4: 0.93 and FCR7: 0.92). Both scales (FCR7 & FCR4) were associated with the HADs subscales as predicted. Patients who experienced chemotherapy, minor aches/pains, thought avoidance of cancer and high cancer risk belief were more fearful. Detailed inspection of item responses profile provided some support for measurement properties of scales. Conclusion: The internal consistency, and pattern of key associations and discriminability indices provided positive psychometric evidence for these scales. The brief measures of FCR may be considered for audit, screening or routine use in clinical service and research investigations.Primate social attention : species differences and effects of individual experience in humans, great apes, and macaquesKano, FumihiroShepherd, Stephen V.Hirata, SatoshiCall, Josephttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127802018-02-27T00:16:21Z2018-02-23T00:00:00ZWhen viewing social scenes, humans and nonhuman primates focus on particular features, such as the models’ eyes, mouth, and action targets. Previous studies reported that such viewing patterns vary significantly across individuals in humans, and also across closely-related primate species. However, the nature of these individual and species differences remains unclear, particularly among nonhuman primates. In large samples of human and nonhuman primates, we examined species differences and the effects of experience on patterns of gaze toward social movies. Experiment 1 examined the species differences across rhesus macaques, nonhuman apes (bonobos, chimpanzees, and orangutans), and humans while they viewed movies of various animals’ species-typical behaviors. We found that each species had distinct viewing patterns of the models’ faces, eyes, mouths, and action targets. Experiment 2 tested the effect of individuals’ experience on chimpanzee and human viewing patterns. We presented movies depicting natural behaviors of chimpanzees to three groups of chimpanzees (individuals from a zoo, a sanctuary, and a research institute) differing in their early social and physical experiences. We also presented the same movies to human adults and children differing in their expertise with chimpanzees (experts vs. novices) or movie-viewing generally (adults vs. preschoolers). Individuals varied within each species in their patterns of gaze toward models’ faces, eyes, mouths, and action targets depending on their unique individual experiences. We thus found that the viewing patterns for social stimuli are both individual- and species-specific in these closely-related primates. Such individual/species-specificities are likely related to both individual experience and species-typical temperament, suggesting that primate individuals acquire their unique attentional biases through both ontogeny and evolution. Such unique attentional biases may help them learn efficiently about their particular social environments.
Financial support came from Japan Society for Promotion of Science (JSPS) [grant numbers: KAKENHI 26885040, 16K21108 to FK, KAKENHI 26245069, 16H06301, 16H06283, JSPS-LGP-U04 to SH] and Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) [K-CONNEX to FK], and the European Research Council [SOMICS 609819 to JC].
2018-02-23T00:00:00ZKano, FumihiroShepherd, Stephen V.Hirata, SatoshiCall, JosepWhen viewing social scenes, humans and nonhuman primates focus on particular features, such as the models’ eyes, mouth, and action targets. Previous studies reported that such viewing patterns vary significantly across individuals in humans, and also across closely-related primate species. However, the nature of these individual and species differences remains unclear, particularly among nonhuman primates. In large samples of human and nonhuman primates, we examined species differences and the effects of experience on patterns of gaze toward social movies. Experiment 1 examined the species differences across rhesus macaques, nonhuman apes (bonobos, chimpanzees, and orangutans), and humans while they viewed movies of various animals’ species-typical behaviors. We found that each species had distinct viewing patterns of the models’ faces, eyes, mouths, and action targets. Experiment 2 tested the effect of individuals’ experience on chimpanzee and human viewing patterns. We presented movies depicting natural behaviors of chimpanzees to three groups of chimpanzees (individuals from a zoo, a sanctuary, and a research institute) differing in their early social and physical experiences. We also presented the same movies to human adults and children differing in their expertise with chimpanzees (experts vs. novices) or movie-viewing generally (adults vs. preschoolers). Individuals varied within each species in their patterns of gaze toward models’ faces, eyes, mouths, and action targets depending on their unique individual experiences. We thus found that the viewing patterns for social stimuli are both individual- and species-specific in these closely-related primates. Such individual/species-specificities are likely related to both individual experience and species-typical temperament, suggesting that primate individuals acquire their unique attentional biases through both ontogeny and evolution. Such unique attentional biases may help them learn efficiently about their particular social environments.You don't belong here: Blood and Chocolate and British remembrance ritualsHaddow, Samhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127792018-02-27T00:16:19Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZThis article argues that the promenade theatre project Blood and Chocolate (York, 2013) offered a theatrical rebuttal to widespread British revisionist, celebratory views of the First World War that draw authority from annual remembrance rituals such as poppy-wearing and the two minute silence. Building on Richard Schechner’s argument that rituals ‘make belief’ I propose that over time, remembrance rituals have been exploited in order to make – or remake – history. This history does not come from the past, but exploits an idea of the past for contemporary political gain. By contrast, Blood and Chocolate dramatized aspects of history but emphasised its own theatricality in order to stress the absolute separateness of past and present.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZHaddow, SamThis article argues that the promenade theatre project Blood and Chocolate (York, 2013) offered a theatrical rebuttal to widespread British revisionist, celebratory views of the First World War that draw authority from annual remembrance rituals such as poppy-wearing and the two minute silence. Building on Richard Schechner’s argument that rituals ‘make belief’ I propose that over time, remembrance rituals have been exploited in order to make – or remake – history. This history does not come from the past, but exploits an idea of the past for contemporary political gain. By contrast, Blood and Chocolate dramatized aspects of history but emphasised its own theatricality in order to stress the absolute separateness of past and present.Electrochemical properties of composite cathodes using Sm doped layered perovskite for intermediate temperature-operating solid oxide fuel cellBaek, Seung-WookAzad, Abul K.Irvine, John T. S.Choi, Won SeokKang, HyunilKim, Jung Hyunhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127782018-02-28T01:30:05Z2018-02-28T00:00:00ZSmBaCo2O5+d (SBCO) showed the lowest observed Area Specific Resistance (ASR) value in the LnBaCo2O5+d (Ln: Pr, Nd, Sm, and Gd) oxide system for the overall temperature ranges tested. The ASR of a composite cathode (mixture of SBCO and Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−d) on a Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−d (CGO91) electrolyte decreased with respect to the CGO91 content; the percolation limit was also achieved for a 50 wt% SBCO and 50 wt% CGO91 (SBCO50) composite cathode. The ASRs of SBCO50 on the dense CGO91 electrolyte in the overall temperature range of 500 to 750 °C were relatively lower than those of SBCO50 on the CGO91 coated dense 8 mol % yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) electrolyte for the same temperature range. From 750 °C and for all higher temperatures tested, however, the ASRs of SBCO50 on the CGO91 coated dense 8YSZ electrolyte were lower than those of the CGO91 electrolyte. The maximum power densities of SBCO50 on the Ni-8YSZ/8YSZ/CGO91 buffer layer were 1.034 W cm−2 and 0.611 W cm−2 at 800 °C and 700 °C.
The authors are grateful for the support of the Basic Science Research Program, part of the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning (No. 2014R1A1A1004163).
2018-02-28T00:00:00ZBaek, Seung-WookAzad, Abul K.Irvine, John T. S.Choi, Won SeokKang, HyunilKim, Jung HyunSmBaCo2O5+d (SBCO) showed the lowest observed Area Specific Resistance (ASR) value in the LnBaCo2O5+d (Ln: Pr, Nd, Sm, and Gd) oxide system for the overall temperature ranges tested. The ASR of a composite cathode (mixture of SBCO and Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−d) on a Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−d (CGO91) electrolyte decreased with respect to the CGO91 content; the percolation limit was also achieved for a 50 wt% SBCO and 50 wt% CGO91 (SBCO50) composite cathode. The ASRs of SBCO50 on the dense CGO91 electrolyte in the overall temperature range of 500 to 750 °C were relatively lower than those of SBCO50 on the CGO91 coated dense 8 mol % yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) electrolyte for the same temperature range. From 750 °C and for all higher temperatures tested, however, the ASRs of SBCO50 on the CGO91 coated dense 8YSZ electrolyte were lower than those of the CGO91 electrolyte. The maximum power densities of SBCO50 on the Ni-8YSZ/8YSZ/CGO91 buffer layer were 1.034 W cm−2 and 0.611 W cm−2 at 800 °C and 700 °C.β-pyrophosphate : a potential biomaterial for dental applicationsAnastasiou, A. D.Strafford, S.Posada-Estefan, O.Thomson, C. L.Hussaein, S. A.Edwards, T. J.Malinowski, M.Hondow, N.Metzger, N. K.Brown, C. T. A.Routledge, M. N.Brown, A. P.Duggal, M. S.Jha, A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127772018-02-26T00:16:07Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZTooth hypersensitivity is a growing problem affecting both the young and ageing population worldwide. Since an effective and permanent solution is not yet available, we propose a new methodology for the restoration of dental enamel using femtosecond lasers and novel calcium phosphate biomaterials. During this procedure the irradiated mineral transforms into a densified layer of acid resistant iron doped β-pyrophosphate, bonded with the surface of eroded enamel. Our aim therefore is to evaluate this densified mineral as a potential replacement material for dental hard tissue. To this end, we have tested the hardness of β-pyrophosphate pellets (sintered at 1000 °C) and its mineral precursor (brushite), the wear rate during simulated tooth-brushing trials and the cytocompatibility of these minerals in powder form. It was found that the hardness of the β-pyrophosphate pellets is comparable with that of dental enamel and significantly higher than dentine while, the brushing trials prove that the wear rate of β-pyrophosphate is much slower than that of natural enamel. Finally, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity tests suggest that iron doped β-pyrophosphate is cytocompatible and therefore could be used in dental applications. Taken together and with the previously reported results on laser irradiation of these materials we conclude that iron doped β-pyrophosphate may be a promising material for restoring acid eroded and worn enamel.
The authors acknowledge support from the sponsors of this work; the EPSRC LUMIN (EP/K020234/1) and EU-Marie-Curie-IAPP LUSTRE (324538) projects.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZAnastasiou, A. D.Strafford, S.Posada-Estefan, O.Thomson, C. L.Hussaein, S. A.Edwards, T. J.Malinowski, M.Hondow, N.Metzger, N. K.Brown, C. T. A.Routledge, M. N.Brown, A. P.Duggal, M. S.Jha, A.Tooth hypersensitivity is a growing problem affecting both the young and ageing population worldwide. Since an effective and permanent solution is not yet available, we propose a new methodology for the restoration of dental enamel using femtosecond lasers and novel calcium phosphate biomaterials. During this procedure the irradiated mineral transforms into a densified layer of acid resistant iron doped β-pyrophosphate, bonded with the surface of eroded enamel. Our aim therefore is to evaluate this densified mineral as a potential replacement material for dental hard tissue. To this end, we have tested the hardness of β-pyrophosphate pellets (sintered at 1000 °C) and its mineral precursor (brushite), the wear rate during simulated tooth-brushing trials and the cytocompatibility of these minerals in powder form. It was found that the hardness of the β-pyrophosphate pellets is comparable with that of dental enamel and significantly higher than dentine while, the brushing trials prove that the wear rate of β-pyrophosphate is much slower than that of natural enamel. Finally, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity tests suggest that iron doped β-pyrophosphate is cytocompatible and therefore could be used in dental applications. Taken together and with the previously reported results on laser irradiation of these materials we conclude that iron doped β-pyrophosphate may be a promising material for restoring acid eroded and worn enamel.On-chip optoelectronic feedback in a micropillar laser-detector assemblyMunnelly, PierceLingnau, BenjaminKarow, Matthias M.Heindel, TobiasKamp, MartinHöfling, SvenLüdge, KathySchneider, ChristianReitzenstein, Stephanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127762018-02-26T00:16:03Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZImplementing time-delayed feedback in optoelectronic circuits allows one to uncover the rich physics and application potential of nonlinear dynamics. Important feedback effects are, for instance, the generation of broadband chaos, or laser self-pulsing. We explore the effect of optoelectronic feedback in an ultracompact microlaser–microdetector assembly operating in the regime of cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED). This system is used to generate self-pulsing at MHz frequencies in the emission of a microlaser, which is qualitatively explained by a rate equation model taking cQED effects into account. The results show promise for exploring chaos in ultracompact nanophotonic systems and for technological approaches toward chaos-based secure communication, random number generation, and self-pulsed single photon sources on a highly integrated semiconductor platform.
The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union's Seventh Framework ERC Grant Agreement No. 615613, from the German Research Foundation via the projects RE2974/9-1, SCHN1376/1-1, and the collaborative research center CRC787.
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZMunnelly, PierceLingnau, BenjaminKarow, Matthias M.Heindel, TobiasKamp, MartinHöfling, SvenLüdge, KathySchneider, ChristianReitzenstein, StephanImplementing time-delayed feedback in optoelectronic circuits allows one to uncover the rich physics and application potential of nonlinear dynamics. Important feedback effects are, for instance, the generation of broadband chaos, or laser self-pulsing. We explore the effect of optoelectronic feedback in an ultracompact microlaser–microdetector assembly operating in the regime of cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED). This system is used to generate self-pulsing at MHz frequencies in the emission of a microlaser, which is qualitatively explained by a rate equation model taking cQED effects into account. The results show promise for exploring chaos in ultracompact nanophotonic systems and for technological approaches toward chaos-based secure communication, random number generation, and self-pulsed single photon sources on a highly integrated semiconductor platform.Statistical model specification and power : recommendations on the use of test-qualified pooling in analysis of experimental dataColegrave, NickRuxton, Graeme D.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127742018-03-01T14:30:06Z2017-03-29T00:00:00ZCommon approach to the analysis of experimental data across much of the biological sciences is test-qualified pooling. Here non-significant terms are dropped from a statistical model, effectively pooling the variation associated with each removed term with the error term used to test hypotheses (or estimate effect sizes). This pooling is only carried out if statistical testing on the basis of applying that data to a previous more complicated model provides motivation for this model simplification; hence the pooling is test-qualified. In pooling, the researcher increases the degrees of freedom of the error term with the aim of increasing statistical power to test their hypotheses of interest. Despite this approach being widely adopted and explicitly recommended by some of the most widely cited statistical textbooks aimed at biologists, here we argue that (except in highly specialized circumstances that we can identify) the hoped-for improvement in statistical power will be small or non-existent, and there is likely to be much reduced reliability of the statistical procedures through deviation of type I error rates from nominal levels. We thus call for greatly reduced use of test-qualified pooling across experimental biology, more careful justification of any use that continues, and a different philosophy for initial selection of statistical models in the light of this change in procedure.
2017-03-29T00:00:00ZColegrave, NickRuxton, Graeme D.Common approach to the analysis of experimental data across much of the biological sciences is test-qualified pooling. Here non-significant terms are dropped from a statistical model, effectively pooling the variation associated with each removed term with the error term used to test hypotheses (or estimate effect sizes). This pooling is only carried out if statistical testing on the basis of applying that data to a previous more complicated model provides motivation for this model simplification; hence the pooling is test-qualified. In pooling, the researcher increases the degrees of freedom of the error term with the aim of increasing statistical power to test their hypotheses of interest. Despite this approach being widely adopted and explicitly recommended by some of the most widely cited statistical textbooks aimed at biologists, here we argue that (except in highly specialized circumstances that we can identify) the hoped-for improvement in statistical power will be small or non-existent, and there is likely to be much reduced reliability of the statistical procedures through deviation of type I error rates from nominal levels. We thus call for greatly reduced use of test-qualified pooling across experimental biology, more careful justification of any use that continues, and a different philosophy for initial selection of statistical models in the light of this change in procedure.Multivalent cation crosslinking suppresses highly energetic graphene oxide’s flammabilityTurgut, HulusiTian, Z. RyanYu, FengjiaoZhou, Wuzonghttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127732018-02-23T00:16:05Z2017-03-16T00:00:00ZGraphene oxide (GO), a common intermediate for making graphene-like materials from graphite, was recently found to possess an explosive fire-hazard that can jeopardize the GO’s large-scale production and wide applications. This work reports a simple and facile method to cross-link the GO with Al3+ cations, in one step, into a freestanding flexible membrane. This inorganic membrane resists in-air burning on an open-flame, at which non-cross-linked GO was burnt out within ~5 seconds. All characterization data suggested that the in-situ “epoxy ring opening” reactions on GO surface facilitated the cross-linking, which elucidated a new mechanism for the generalized inorganic polymerization. With the much improved thermal- and water-stabilities, the cross-linked GO-film can help to advance high-temperature fuel-cells, electronic packaging, etc. as one of the long-sought inorganic polymers known to date.
The authors acknowledges National Science Foundation- Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (NSF-EPSCoR) for partial support, Prof. S. Yu’s lab for the micro-Raman experiments, and Dr. Jingyi Chen’s lab for the TGA study.
2017-03-16T00:00:00ZTurgut, HulusiTian, Z. RyanYu, FengjiaoZhou, WuzongGraphene oxide (GO), a common intermediate for making graphene-like materials from graphite, was recently found to possess an explosive fire-hazard that can jeopardize the GO’s large-scale production and wide applications. This work reports a simple and facile method to cross-link the GO with Al3+ cations, in one step, into a freestanding flexible membrane. This inorganic membrane resists in-air burning on an open-flame, at which non-cross-linked GO was burnt out within ~5 seconds. All characterization data suggested that the in-situ “epoxy ring opening” reactions on GO surface facilitated the cross-linking, which elucidated a new mechanism for the generalized inorganic polymerization. With the much improved thermal- and water-stabilities, the cross-linked GO-film can help to advance high-temperature fuel-cells, electronic packaging, etc. as one of the long-sought inorganic polymers known to date.Wet chemical synthesis and characterisation of Ba0.5Sr0.5Ce0.6Zr0.2Gd0.1Y0.1O3 − δ proton conductorNaeem Khan, M.Savaniu, C. D.Azad, A. K.Hing, PeterIrvine, J. T. S.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127722018-02-23T00:16:00Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZBa0.5Sr0.5Ce0.6Zr0.2Gd0.1Y0.1O3 − δ (BSCZGY) proton conducting electrolyte material for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs) has been synthesized by a sol-gel modified Pechini process and its sinterability, thermal expansion, microstructure, ionic conductivity and chemical stability have been investigated. Ionic conductivity at 700 °C was measured to be ~ 8 × 10− 3 S cm− 1 in wet 5 vol.% H2/Ar atmospheres. Chemical stability test in pure CO2 up to 1200 °C shows that the material is highly stable; better than the stability of BaZr0.3Ce0.5Y0.1Yb0.1O3 − δ.
M. N. Khan would like to thank University of Brunei Darussalam for a Graduate Research Scholarship. L.C. Lim and P. Hing thank UBD, and Government of Brunei Darussalam (S&T 17) for a generous research grant under the UBD Energy programme.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZNaeem Khan, M.Savaniu, C. D.Azad, A. K.Hing, PeterIrvine, J. T. S.Ba0.5Sr0.5Ce0.6Zr0.2Gd0.1Y0.1O3 − δ (BSCZGY) proton conducting electrolyte material for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs) has been synthesized by a sol-gel modified Pechini process and its sinterability, thermal expansion, microstructure, ionic conductivity and chemical stability have been investigated. Ionic conductivity at 700 °C was measured to be ~ 8 × 10− 3 S cm− 1 in wet 5 vol.% H2/Ar atmospheres. Chemical stability test in pure CO2 up to 1200 °C shows that the material is highly stable; better than the stability of BaZr0.3Ce0.5Y0.1Yb0.1O3 − δ.Territoriality, social bonds, and the evolution of communal signaling in birdsTobias, Joseph A.Sheard, CatherineSeddon, NathalieMeade, AndrewCotton, Alison J.Nakagawa, Shinichihttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127712018-03-01T14:30:06Z2016-06-24T00:00:00ZCommunal signaling—wherein males and females collaborate to produce joint visual or acoustic displays—is perhaps the most complex and least understood form of communication in social animals. Although many communal signals appear to mediate competitive interactions within and between coalitions of individuals, previous studies have highlighted a confusing array of social and environmental factors that may explain the evolution of these displays, and we still lack the global synthesis needed to understand why communal signals are distributed so unevenly across large taxonomic and geographic scales. Here, we use Bayesian phylogenetic models to test whether acoustic communal signals (duets and choruses) are explained by a range of life-history and environmental variables across 10328 bird species worldwide. We estimate that duets and choruses occur in 1830 (18%) species in our sample and are thus considerably more widespread than previously thought. We then show that global patterns in duetting and chorusing, including evolutionary transitions between communal signaling and solo signaling, are not explained by latitude, migration, climate, or habitat, and only weakly correlated with cooperative breeding. Instead, they are most strongly associated with year-round territoriality, typically in conjunction with stable social bonds. Our results suggest that the evolution of communal signals is associated with the coordinated defense of ecological resources by stable coalitions of males and females, and that other widely reported associations are largely by-products of this underlying trend.
JT was supported by the John Fell Fund and the Natural Environment Research Council. NS was funded by a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. SN was supported by a Royal Society of New Zealand Rutherford Discovery Fellowship and an Australian Research Council Future Fellowship.
2016-06-24T00:00:00ZTobias, Joseph A.Sheard, CatherineSeddon, NathalieMeade, AndrewCotton, Alison J.Nakagawa, ShinichiCommunal signaling—wherein males and females collaborate to produce joint visual or acoustic displays—is perhaps the most complex and least understood form of communication in social animals. Although many communal signals appear to mediate competitive interactions within and between coalitions of individuals, previous studies have highlighted a confusing array of social and environmental factors that may explain the evolution of these displays, and we still lack the global synthesis needed to understand why communal signals are distributed so unevenly across large taxonomic and geographic scales. Here, we use Bayesian phylogenetic models to test whether acoustic communal signals (duets and choruses) are explained by a range of life-history and environmental variables across 10328 bird species worldwide. We estimate that duets and choruses occur in 1830 (18%) species in our sample and are thus considerably more widespread than previously thought. We then show that global patterns in duetting and chorusing, including evolutionary transitions between communal signaling and solo signaling, are not explained by latitude, migration, climate, or habitat, and only weakly correlated with cooperative breeding. Instead, they are most strongly associated with year-round territoriality, typically in conjunction with stable social bonds. Our results suggest that the evolution of communal signals is associated with the coordinated defense of ecological resources by stable coalitions of males and females, and that other widely reported associations are largely by-products of this underlying trend.Flight range, fuel load and the impact of climate change on the journeys of migrant birdsHoward, ChristineStephens, Philip A.Tobias, Joseph A.Sheard, CatherineButchart, Stuart H. M.Willis, Stephen G.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127702018-02-28T01:30:08Z2018-02-28T00:00:00ZClimate change is predicted to increase migration distances for many migratory species, but the physiological and temporal implications of longer migratory journeys have not been explored. Here, we combine information about species' flight range potential and migratory refuelling requirements to simulate the number of stopovers required and the duration of current migratory journeys for 77 bird species breeding in Europe. Using tracking data, we show that our estimates accord with recorded journey times and stopovers for most species. We then combine projections of altered migratory distances under climate change with models of avian flight to predict future migratory journeys. We find that 37% of migratory journeys undertaken by long-distance migrants will necessitate an additional stopover in future. These greater distances and the increased number of stops will substantially increase overall journey durations of many long-distance migratory species, a factor not currently considered in climate impact studies.
Collection of biometric data was supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NE/I028068/1) to JAT and the USUK Fulbright Commission and the Oxford Clarendon Fund to C.S. This research was funded by a Durham University Seedcorn grant to SGW. Production of the underlying SDMs was funded by a National Environment Research Council training grant (NE/J500215/1).
2018-02-28T00:00:00ZHoward, ChristineStephens, Philip A.Tobias, Joseph A.Sheard, CatherineButchart, Stuart H. M.Willis, Stephen G.Climate change is predicted to increase migration distances for many migratory species, but the physiological and temporal implications of longer migratory journeys have not been explored. Here, we combine information about species' flight range potential and migratory refuelling requirements to simulate the number of stopovers required and the duration of current migratory journeys for 77 bird species breeding in Europe. Using tracking data, we show that our estimates accord with recorded journey times and stopovers for most species. We then combine projections of altered migratory distances under climate change with models of avian flight to predict future migratory journeys. We find that 37% of migratory journeys undertaken by long-distance migrants will necessitate an additional stopover in future. These greater distances and the increased number of stops will substantially increase overall journey durations of many long-distance migratory species, a factor not currently considered in climate impact studies.Effects of undercutting and sliding on calving : a global approach applied to Kronebreen, SvalbardVallot, D.Åström, J.Zwinger, T.Pettersson, R.Everett, A.Benn, Douglas I.Luckman, A.van Pelt, W. J. J.Nick, F.Kohler, J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127682018-03-18T02:30:32Z2018-02-21T00:00:00ZIn this paper, we study the effects of basal friction, sub-aqueous undercutting and glacier geometry on the calving process by combining six different models in an offline-coupled workflow: a continuum–mechanical ice flow model (Elmer/Ice), a climatic mass balance model, a simple subglacial hydrology model, a plume model, an undercutting model and a discrete particle model to investigate fracture dynamics (Helsinki Discrete Element Model, HiDEM). We demonstrate the feasibility of reproducing the observed calving retreat at the front of Kronebreen, a tidewater glacier in Svalbard, during a melt season by using the output from the first five models as input to HiDEM. Basal sliding and glacier motion are addressed using Elmer/Ice, while calving is modelled by HiDEM. A hydrology model calculates subglacial drainage paths and indicates two main outlets with different discharges. Depending on the discharge, the plume model computes frontal melt rates, which are iteratively projected to the actual front of the glacier at subglacial discharge locations. This produces undercutting of different sizes, as melt is concentrated close to the surface for high discharge and is more diffuse for low discharge. By testing different configurations, we show that undercutting plays a key role in glacier retreat and is necessary to reproduce observed retreat in the vicinity of the discharge locations during the melting season. Calving rates are also influenced by basal friction, through its effects on near-terminus strain rates and ice velocity.
Thomas Zwinger was supported by the Nordic Center of Excellence eSTICC (eScience Tools for Investigating Climate Change in Northern High Latitudes) funded by Nordforsk (grant 57001). Acquisition of the TerraSAR-X imagery was funded by the ConocoPhillips Northern Area Program, via the CRIOS project (Calving Rates and Impact on Sea Level). The lead author received an Arctic Field Grant from the Svalbard Science Forum to acquire radar lines for the basal topography in 2014.
2018-02-21T00:00:00ZVallot, D.Åström, J.Zwinger, T.Pettersson, R.Everett, A.Benn, Douglas I.Luckman, A.van Pelt, W. J. J.Nick, F.Kohler, J.In this paper, we study the effects of basal friction, sub-aqueous undercutting and glacier geometry on the calving process by combining six different models in an offline-coupled workflow: a continuum–mechanical ice flow model (Elmer/Ice), a climatic mass balance model, a simple subglacial hydrology model, a plume model, an undercutting model and a discrete particle model to investigate fracture dynamics (Helsinki Discrete Element Model, HiDEM). We demonstrate the feasibility of reproducing the observed calving retreat at the front of Kronebreen, a tidewater glacier in Svalbard, during a melt season by using the output from the first five models as input to HiDEM. Basal sliding and glacier motion are addressed using Elmer/Ice, while calving is modelled by HiDEM. A hydrology model calculates subglacial drainage paths and indicates two main outlets with different discharges. Depending on the discharge, the plume model computes frontal melt rates, which are iteratively projected to the actual front of the glacier at subglacial discharge locations. This produces undercutting of different sizes, as melt is concentrated close to the surface for high discharge and is more diffuse for low discharge. By testing different configurations, we show that undercutting plays a key role in glacier retreat and is necessary to reproduce observed retreat in the vicinity of the discharge locations during the melting season. Calving rates are also influenced by basal friction, through its effects on near-terminus strain rates and ice velocity.Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) display limited behavioural flexibility when faced with a changing foraging task requiring tool useHarrison, Rachel AnneWhiten, Andrewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127672018-02-22T00:16:15Z2018-02-19T00:00:00ZBehavioural flexibility, the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems, is a crucial ability in allowing organisms to adapt to novel environments and environmental change; it is essential to cumulative cultural change. To explore this ability in chimpanzees, 18 individuals (Pan troglodytes) were presented with an artificial foraging task consisting of a tube partially filled with juice that could be reached by hand or retrieved using tool materials to hand. Effective solutions were then restricted in the second phase of the study by narrowing the diameter of the tube, necessitating the abandonment of previously successful solutions. Chimpanzees showed limited behavioural flexibility in comparison to some previous studies, increasing their use of effective techniques, but also continuing to attempt solutions that had been rendered ineffective. This adds to a literature reporting divergent evidence for flexibility (the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems) versus conservatism (a reluctance or inability to explore or adopt novel solutions to problems when a solution is already known) in apes.
This work was supported by a John Templeton Foundation grant ID 40128 to Andrew Whiten.
2018-02-19T00:00:00ZHarrison, Rachel AnneWhiten, AndrewBehavioural flexibility, the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems, is a crucial ability in allowing organisms to adapt to novel environments and environmental change; it is essential to cumulative cultural change. To explore this ability in chimpanzees, 18 individuals (Pan troglodytes) were presented with an artificial foraging task consisting of a tube partially filled with juice that could be reached by hand or retrieved using tool materials to hand. Effective solutions were then restricted in the second phase of the study by narrowing the diameter of the tube, necessitating the abandonment of previously successful solutions. Chimpanzees showed limited behavioural flexibility in comparison to some previous studies, increasing their use of effective techniques, but also continuing to attempt solutions that had been rendered ineffective. This adds to a literature reporting divergent evidence for flexibility (the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems) versus conservatism (a reluctance or inability to explore or adopt novel solutions to problems when a solution is already known) in apes.Differential gene expression is not required for facultative sex allocation : a transcriptome analysis of brain tissue in the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennisCook, NicolaBoulton, RebeccaGreen, JadeTrivedi, UrmiTauber, EranPannebakker, Bart A.Ritchie, Michael GordonShuker, David Michaelhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127662018-02-22T00:16:14Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZWhole-transcriptome technologies have been widely used in behavioural genetics to identify genes associated with the performance of a behaviour and provide clues to its mechanistic basis. Here, we consider the genetic basis of sex allocation behaviour in the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis. Female Nasonia facultatively vary their offspring sex ratio in line with Hamilton's theory of local mate competition (LMC). A single female or ‘foundress’ laying eggs on a patch will lay just enough sons to fertilize her daughters. As the number of ‘foundresses’ laying eggs on a patch increases (and LMC declines), females produce increasingly male-biased sex ratios. Phenotypic studies have revealed the cues females use to estimate the level of LMC their sons will experience, but our understanding of the genetics underlying sex allocation is limited. Here, we exposed females to three foundress number conditions, i.e. three LMC conditions, and allowed them to oviposit. mRNA was extracted from only the heads of these females to target the brain tissue. The subsequent RNA-seq experiment confirmed that differential gene expression is not associated with the response to sex allocation cues and that we must instead turn to the underlying neuroscience to reveal the underpinnings of this impressive behavioural plasticity.
This work was supported by Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) grant (NE/J024481/1). DMS. was previously funded by a NERC Advanced Research Fellowship. BAP was funded by the Netherlands Genomics Initiative (NGI Zenith no. 935.11.04). UT and Edinburgh Genomics are partly supported through core grants from NERC (R8/H10/56), MRC (MR/K001744/1), and BBSRC (BB/J004243/1). RAB was funded by a NERC Doctoral Training Grant.
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZCook, NicolaBoulton, RebeccaGreen, JadeTrivedi, UrmiTauber, EranPannebakker, Bart A.Ritchie, Michael GordonShuker, David MichaelWhole-transcriptome technologies have been widely used in behavioural genetics to identify genes associated with the performance of a behaviour and provide clues to its mechanistic basis. Here, we consider the genetic basis of sex allocation behaviour in the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis. Female Nasonia facultatively vary their offspring sex ratio in line with Hamilton's theory of local mate competition (LMC). A single female or ‘foundress’ laying eggs on a patch will lay just enough sons to fertilize her daughters. As the number of ‘foundresses’ laying eggs on a patch increases (and LMC declines), females produce increasingly male-biased sex ratios. Phenotypic studies have revealed the cues females use to estimate the level of LMC their sons will experience, but our understanding of the genetics underlying sex allocation is limited. Here, we exposed females to three foundress number conditions, i.e. three LMC conditions, and allowed them to oviposit. mRNA was extracted from only the heads of these females to target the brain tissue. The subsequent RNA-seq experiment confirmed that differential gene expression is not associated with the response to sex allocation cues and that we must instead turn to the underlying neuroscience to reveal the underpinnings of this impressive behavioural plasticity.Leadership formation : interpreting experienceHibbert, Paul CharlesBeech, NicSiedlok, Frankhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127652018-02-22T00:33:06Z2017-12-01T00:00:00ZIn this essay we look at leadership development differently, through the lens of philosophical hermeneutics. We show how three aspects of philosophical hermeneutics - focused on accumulating experience of interpretation, engaging in dialogue and interpreting experience - connect with insights from the leadership development literature and lead to principles for a process of leadership formation. The process we describe explains how formation: extends historically through connection with traditions; involves processes of careful, situated dialogic engagement; and encompasses aesthetic engagement with experience in each event of interpretation. Building on these insights, we derive practical implications for educational policy and practice and develop theoretical implications for leadership development debates.
2017-12-01T00:00:00ZHibbert, Paul CharlesBeech, NicSiedlok, FrankIn this essay we look at leadership development differently, through the lens of philosophical hermeneutics. We show how three aspects of philosophical hermeneutics - focused on accumulating experience of interpretation, engaging in dialogue and interpreting experience - connect with insights from the leadership development literature and lead to principles for a process of leadership formation. The process we describe explains how formation: extends historically through connection with traditions; involves processes of careful, situated dialogic engagement; and encompasses aesthetic engagement with experience in each event of interpretation. Building on these insights, we derive practical implications for educational policy and practice and develop theoretical implications for leadership development debates.Quality of life and adolescents’ communication with their significant others (mother, father, and best friend) : the mediating effect of attachment to petsMarsa-Sambola, FerranWilliams, JoanneMuldoon, JanineLawrence, AlistairConnor, MelanieCurrie, Candacehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127642018-02-22T00:16:18Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZThe relationship between adolescents? communication with their significant others (mother, father, and best friend) and quality of life (KIDSCREEN) was investigated in 2262 Scottish adolescent pet owners. The variable attachment to pets was also tested and assessed as a mediator of this relationship. A positive relationship between adolescents? communication with their significant other (mother, father, and best friend) and quality of life decreased when controlling for attachment to dogs. In cat owners, a positive relationship between communication with a best friend and quality of life decreased when controlling for attachment to cats. In cat and dog owners, attachment to these pets predicted higher levels of quality of life. Higher attachment to dogs and cats was explained by good best friend (IV) and attachment to pets (DV) and best friends. Mediation effects of attachment to dogs and cats might be explained in terms of the caring activities associated with these types of pets.
The authors would like to thank DEFRA for funding this project (SMDO-ZGLD15).
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZMarsa-Sambola, FerranWilliams, JoanneMuldoon, JanineLawrence, AlistairConnor, MelanieCurrie, CandaceThe relationship between adolescents? communication with their significant others (mother, father, and best friend) and quality of life (KIDSCREEN) was investigated in 2262 Scottish adolescent pet owners. The variable attachment to pets was also tested and assessed as a mediator of this relationship. A positive relationship between adolescents? communication with their significant other (mother, father, and best friend) and quality of life decreased when controlling for attachment to dogs. In cat owners, a positive relationship between communication with a best friend and quality of life decreased when controlling for attachment to cats. In cat and dog owners, attachment to these pets predicted higher levels of quality of life. Higher attachment to dogs and cats was explained by good best friend (IV) and attachment to pets (DV) and best friends. Mediation effects of attachment to dogs and cats might be explained in terms of the caring activities associated with these types of pets.A comparative study of how British tits encode predator threat in their mobbing callsCarlson, Nora V.Healy, Susan D.Templeton, Christopher N.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127632018-02-22T00:16:16Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZMany species use antipredator vocalizations to signal information about potential predators, including the level of threat posed by a particular predator. It is not clear, however, why only some prey species do this. Because they use multiple mechanisms to encode threat-specific information about predators, North American Paridae species have been a particularly useful model for studying antipredator signals. Paridae as a group are also useful for examining phylogenetic conservation of vocal signals because all of these species (at least those studied previously) employ similar ways of encoding information about predator threat. To test whether the ways in which predator threat information is encoded (here measured by a bird's vocal output) are conserved across a family with similar vocalizations, we used taxidermy mounts to simulate low- and high-threat predators to induce mobbing in six species across five genera of British Paridae. We found that, like North American species, British tits all increased their call rate in response to predators compared with nonthreatening control mounts, but they all varied in the number and types of additional ways they encoded this information. Some species (blue and willow tits) used all four ways to differentiate between different threat predators, while others used only two (crested tits), one (great and coal tits) or none at all (willow tits). The variation in the way each species encoded predator threat information in their calls was not explained by phylogenetic relatedness or by variation in life history. To better understand patterns of information encoding across related species, we suggest that playback experiments to determine how encoded information is used by conspecifics and heterospecifics might provide insights about why some species encode information about predator threat in multiple ways.
This research funded by NERC (NE/J018694/1), the Royal Society (RG2012R2), the M. J. Murdock Charitable Trust (2014199) and the University of St Andrews (University of St Andrews 600th Year Scholarship and the St Leonard's Fee Scholarship).
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZCarlson, Nora V.Healy, Susan D.Templeton, Christopher N.Many species use antipredator vocalizations to signal information about potential predators, including the level of threat posed by a particular predator. It is not clear, however, why only some prey species do this. Because they use multiple mechanisms to encode threat-specific information about predators, North American Paridae species have been a particularly useful model for studying antipredator signals. Paridae as a group are also useful for examining phylogenetic conservation of vocal signals because all of these species (at least those studied previously) employ similar ways of encoding information about predator threat. To test whether the ways in which predator threat information is encoded (here measured by a bird's vocal output) are conserved across a family with similar vocalizations, we used taxidermy mounts to simulate low- and high-threat predators to induce mobbing in six species across five genera of British Paridae. We found that, like North American species, British tits all increased their call rate in response to predators compared with nonthreatening control mounts, but they all varied in the number and types of additional ways they encoded this information. Some species (blue and willow tits) used all four ways to differentiate between different threat predators, while others used only two (crested tits), one (great and coal tits) or none at all (willow tits). The variation in the way each species encoded predator threat information in their calls was not explained by phylogenetic relatedness or by variation in life history. To better understand patterns of information encoding across related species, we suggest that playback experiments to determine how encoded information is used by conspecifics and heterospecifics might provide insights about why some species encode information about predator threat in multiple ways.Chlorine-enabled electron doping in solution-synthesized SnSe thermoelectric nanomaterialsHan, GuangPopuri, Srinivas R.Greer, Heather F.Llin, Lourdes F.Bos, Jan-Willem G.Zhou, WuzongPaul, Douglas J.Ménard, HervéKnox, Andrew R.Montecucco, AndreaSiviter, JonathanMan, Elena A.Li, Wen-guangPaul, Manosh C.Gao, MinSweet, TracyFreer, RobertAzough, FeridoonBaig, HasanMallik, Tapas K.Gregory, Duncan H.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127622018-03-18T01:39:02Z2017-07-05T00:00:00ZAn aqueous solution method is developed for the facile synthesis of Cl-containing SnSe nanoparticles in 10 g quantities per batch. The particle size and Cl concentration of the nanoparticles can be efficiently tuned as a function of reaction duration. Hot pressing produces n-type Cl-doped SnSe nanostructured compacts with thermoelectric power factors optimized via control of Cl dopant concentration. This approach, combining an energy-efficient solution synthesis with hot pressing, provides a simple, rapid, and low-cost route to high performance n-type SnSe thermoelectric materials.
This work was financially supported by the EPSRC (EP/K022156/1). SRP and JWGB acknowledge the EPSRC for support (EP/N01717X/1). HFG and WZ acknowledge the EPSRC for the Equipment Grant to purchase Titan Themis 200 microscope (EP/L017008/1).
2017-07-05T00:00:00ZHan, GuangPopuri, Srinivas R.Greer, Heather F.Llin, Lourdes F.Bos, Jan-Willem G.Zhou, WuzongPaul, Douglas J.Ménard, HervéKnox, Andrew R.Montecucco, AndreaSiviter, JonathanMan, Elena A.Li, Wen-guangPaul, Manosh C.Gao, MinSweet, TracyFreer, RobertAzough, FeridoonBaig, HasanMallik, Tapas K.Gregory, Duncan H.An aqueous solution method is developed for the facile synthesis of Cl-containing SnSe nanoparticles in 10 g quantities per batch. The particle size and Cl concentration of the nanoparticles can be efficiently tuned as a function of reaction duration. Hot pressing produces n-type Cl-doped SnSe nanostructured compacts with thermoelectric power factors optimized via control of Cl dopant concentration. This approach, combining an energy-efficient solution synthesis with hot pressing, provides a simple, rapid, and low-cost route to high performance n-type SnSe thermoelectric materials.The coronal monsoon : thermal nonequilibrium revealed by periodic coronal rainAuchère, FrédéricFroment, ClaraSoubrié, ElieAntolin, PatrickOliver, RamonPelouze, Gabrielhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127612018-02-25T01:33:25Z2018-02-05T00:00:00ZWe report on the discovery of periodic coronal rain in an off-limb sequence of Solar Dynamics Observatory/Atmospheric Imaging Assembly images. The showers are co-spatial and in phase with periodic (6.6 hr) intensity pulsations of coronal loops of the sort described by Auchère et al. and Froment et al. These new observations make possible a unified description of both phenomena. Coronal rain and periodic intensity pulsations of loops are two manifestations of the same physical process: evaporation/condensation cycles resulting from a state of thermal nonequilibrium. The fluctuations around coronal temperatures produce the intensity pulsations of loops, and rain falls along their legs if thermal runaway cools the periodic condensations down and below transition-region temperatures. This scenario is in line with the predictions of numerical models of quasi-steadily and footpoint heated loops. The presence of coronal rain—albeit non-periodic—in several other structures within the studied field of view implies that this type of heating is at play on a large scale.
P.A. has received funding from the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council (Consolidated Grant ST/K000950/1) and the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No. 647214).
2018-02-05T00:00:00ZAuchère, FrédéricFroment, ClaraSoubrié, ElieAntolin, PatrickOliver, RamonPelouze, GabrielWe report on the discovery of periodic coronal rain in an off-limb sequence of Solar Dynamics Observatory/Atmospheric Imaging Assembly images. The showers are co-spatial and in phase with periodic (6.6 hr) intensity pulsations of coronal loops of the sort described by Auchère et al. and Froment et al. These new observations make possible a unified description of both phenomena. Coronal rain and periodic intensity pulsations of loops are two manifestations of the same physical process: evaporation/condensation cycles resulting from a state of thermal nonequilibrium. The fluctuations around coronal temperatures produce the intensity pulsations of loops, and rain falls along their legs if thermal runaway cools the periodic condensations down and below transition-region temperatures. This scenario is in line with the predictions of numerical models of quasi-steadily and footpoint heated loops. The presence of coronal rain—albeit non-periodic—in several other structures within the studied field of view implies that this type of heating is at play on a large scale.Generalized classes of continuous symmetries in two-mode Dicke modelsMoodie, RyanBallantine, KyleKeeling, Jonathan Mark Jameshttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127602018-03-01T18:30:09Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZAs recently realized experimentally [Léonard et al., Nature 543 , 87 (2017)], one can engineer models with continuous symmetries by coupling two cavity modes to trapped atoms, via a Raman pumping geometry. Considering specifically cases where internal states of the atoms couple to the cavity, we show an extended range of parameters for which continuous symmetry breaking can occur, and we classify the distinct steady states and time-dependent states that arise for different points in this extended parameter regime.
K.E.B. and J.K. acknowledge support from EPSRC program “TOPNES” (EP/I031014/1).
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZMoodie, RyanBallantine, KyleKeeling, Jonathan Mark JamesAs recently realized experimentally [Léonard et al., Nature 543 , 87 (2017)], one can engineer models with continuous symmetries by coupling two cavity modes to trapped atoms, via a Raman pumping geometry. Considering specifically cases where internal states of the atoms couple to the cavity, we show an extended range of parameters for which continuous symmetry breaking can occur, and we classify the distinct steady states and time-dependent states that arise for different points in this extended parameter regime.Improving the quality of cognitive screening assessments : ACEmobile, an iPad-based version of the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-IIINewman, Craig G. J.Bevins, Adam D.Zajicek, John P.Hodges, John R.Vuillermoz, EmilDickenson, Jennifer M.Kelly, Denise S.Brown, SimonaNoad, Rupert F.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127592018-02-21T00:16:13Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZIntroduction: Ensuring reliable administration and reporting of cognitive screening tests are fundamental in establishing good clinical practice and research. This study captured the rate and type of errors in clinical practice, using the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-III (ACE-III), and then the reduction in error rate using a computerized alternative, the ACEmobile app. Methods: In study 1, we evaluated ACE-III assessments completed in National Health Service (NHS) clinics (n = 87) for administrator error. In study 2, ACEmobile and ACE-III were then evaluated for their ability to capture accurate measurement. Results: In study 1, 78% of clinically administered ACE-IIIs were either scored incorrectly or had arithmetical errors. In study 2, error rates seen in the ACE-III were reduced by 85%–93% using ACEmobile. Discussion: Error rates are ubiquitous in routine clinical use of cognitive screening tests and the ACE-III. ACEmobile provides a framework for supporting reduced administration, scoring, and arithmetical error during cognitive screening.
The authors would like to acknowledge the National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care in the South West Peninsula (PenCLAHRC) and Clinical Trials Methods in Neurodegenerative Diseases (Programme Grant RP-PG-0707-10124).
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZNewman, Craig G. J.Bevins, Adam D.Zajicek, John P.Hodges, John R.Vuillermoz, EmilDickenson, Jennifer M.Kelly, Denise S.Brown, SimonaNoad, Rupert F.Introduction: Ensuring reliable administration and reporting of cognitive screening tests are fundamental in establishing good clinical practice and research. This study captured the rate and type of errors in clinical practice, using the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-III (ACE-III), and then the reduction in error rate using a computerized alternative, the ACEmobile app. Methods: In study 1, we evaluated ACE-III assessments completed in National Health Service (NHS) clinics (n = 87) for administrator error. In study 2, ACEmobile and ACE-III were then evaluated for their ability to capture accurate measurement. Results: In study 1, 78% of clinically administered ACE-IIIs were either scored incorrectly or had arithmetical errors. In study 2, error rates seen in the ACE-III were reduced by 85%–93% using ACEmobile. Discussion: Error rates are ubiquitous in routine clinical use of cognitive screening tests and the ACE-III. ACEmobile provides a framework for supporting reduced administration, scoring, and arithmetical error during cognitive screening.Non-blackbody disks can help explain inferred AGN accretion disk sizesHall, PatrickSarrouh, GhassanHorne, Keithhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127582018-02-21T00:16:12Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZIf the atmospheric density ρatm in the accretion disk of an active galactic nucleus (AGN) is sufficiently low, scattering in the atmosphere can produce a non-blackbody emergent spectrum. For a given bolometric luminosity, at ultraviolet and optical wavelengths such disks have lower fluxes and apparently larger sizes as compared to disks that emit as blackbodies. We show that models in which ρatm is a sufficiently low fixed fraction of the interior density ρ can match the AGN STORM observations of NGC 5548 but produce disk spectral energy distributions that peak at shorter wavelengths than observed in luminous AGN in general. Thus, scattering atmospheres can contribute to the explanation for large inferred AGN accretion disk sizes but are unlikely to be the only contributor. In the appendix section, we present unified equations for the interior ρ and T in gas pressure-dominated regions of a thin accretion disk.
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZHall, PatrickSarrouh, GhassanHorne, KeithIf the atmospheric density ρatm in the accretion disk of an active galactic nucleus (AGN) is sufficiently low, scattering in the atmosphere can produce a non-blackbody emergent spectrum. For a given bolometric luminosity, at ultraviolet and optical wavelengths such disks have lower fluxes and apparently larger sizes as compared to disks that emit as blackbodies. We show that models in which ρatm is a sufficiently low fixed fraction of the interior density ρ can match the AGN STORM observations of NGC 5548 but produce disk spectral energy distributions that peak at shorter wavelengths than observed in luminous AGN in general. Thus, scattering atmospheres can contribute to the explanation for large inferred AGN accretion disk sizes but are unlikely to be the only contributor. In the appendix section, we present unified equations for the interior ρ and T in gas pressure-dominated regions of a thin accretion disk.EthniCity of leisure : a domains approach to ethnic integration during free time activitiesKukk, KristiinaVan Ham, MaartenTammuru, T.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127572018-03-04T02:30:41Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZThis paper investigates the most common leisure time activities, activity sites and the interaction between members of minority and majority populations as they spend their time out-of-home and out-of-workplace. We ask the question how leisure time activities are related to the ethnic dimensions of residential and workplaces. Our case study area is Tallinn, Estonia, and the main findings show that leisure time activity patterns have become very similar across the main ethnic groups, which is different from what is found for workplace and residential segregation. This shows the integrative potential of leisure time activities. However, since members of the minority and majority population still tend to visit different leisure sites, there is little interaction. We also find that people often spend their free time close to home, which implies that high levels of ethnic residential segregation translate into ethnic segregation during leisure time.
The research leading to these results has received funding from the Estonian Research Council (Institutional Research Grant IUT2-17 on Spatial Population Mobility and Geographical Changes in Urban Regions); the Estonian Science Foundation (Grant No. 8774 and 9247); and the European Research Council under the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP/2007-2013)/ERC [Grant Agreement No. 615159] (ERC Consolidator Grant DEPRIVEDHOODS, Socio-spatial inequality, deprived neighbourhoods, and neighbourhood effects); and from the Marie Curie programme under the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP/2007-2013)/Career Integration [Grant No. PCIG10-GA-2011-303728] (CIG Grant NBHCHOICE, Neighbourhood choice, neighbourhood sorting, and neighbourhood effects)
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZKukk, KristiinaVan Ham, MaartenTammuru, T.This paper investigates the most common leisure time activities, activity sites and the interaction between members of minority and majority populations as they spend their time out-of-home and out-of-workplace. We ask the question how leisure time activities are related to the ethnic dimensions of residential and workplaces. Our case study area is Tallinn, Estonia, and the main findings show that leisure time activity patterns have become very similar across the main ethnic groups, which is different from what is found for workplace and residential segregation. This shows the integrative potential of leisure time activities. However, since members of the minority and majority population still tend to visit different leisure sites, there is little interaction. We also find that people often spend their free time close to home, which implies that high levels of ethnic residential segregation translate into ethnic segregation during leisure time.Diversity from genes to ecosystems : a unifying framework to study variation across biological metrics and scalesGaggiotti, Oscar E.Chao, AnnePeres-Neto, PedroChiu, Chun-HuoEdwards, ChristineFortin, Marie-JoséeJost, LouRichards, ChristopherSelkoe, Kimberlyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127562018-02-21T00:16:09Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZBiological diversity is a key concept in the life sciences and plays a fundamental role in many ecological and evolutionary processes. Although biodiversity is inherently a hierarchical concept covering different levels of organisation (genes, population, species, ecological communities and ecosystems), a diversity index that behaves consistently across these different levels has so far been lacking, hindering the development of truly integrative biodiversity studies. To fill this important knowledge gap we present a unifying framework for the measurement of biodiversity across hierarchical levels of organisation. Our weighted, information-based decomposition framework is based on a Hill number of order q = 1, which weights all elements in proportion to their frequency and leads to diversity measures based on Shannon’s entropy. We investigated the numerical behaviour of our approach with simulations and showed that it can accurately describe complex spatial hierarchical structures. To demonstrate the intuitive and straightforward interpretation of our diversity measures in terms of effective number of components (alleles, species, etc.) we applied the framework to a real dataset on coral reef biodiversity. We expect our framework will have multiple applications covering the fields of conservation biology, community genetics, and eco-evolutionary dynamics.
This work was assisted through participation in “Next Generation Genetic Monitoring” Investigative Workshop at the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis, sponsored by the National Science Foundation through NSF Award #DBI-1300426, with additional support from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Hawaiian fish community data were provided by the NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center's Coral Reef Ecosystem Division (CRED) with funding from NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. O.E.G. was supported by the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland (MASTS). A. C. and C. H. C. were supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan. P.P.-N. was supported by a Canada Research Chair in Spatial Modelling and Biodiversity. K.A.S. was supported by National Science Foundation (BioOCE Award Number 1260169) and the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis. All data used in this manuscript are available in DRYAD (https://doi.org/dx.doi.org/10.5061/dryad.qm288) and BCO-DMO (http://www.bco-dmo.org/project/552879).
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZGaggiotti, Oscar E.Chao, AnnePeres-Neto, PedroChiu, Chun-HuoEdwards, ChristineFortin, Marie-JoséeJost, LouRichards, ChristopherSelkoe, KimberlyBiological diversity is a key concept in the life sciences and plays a fundamental role in many ecological and evolutionary processes. Although biodiversity is inherently a hierarchical concept covering different levels of organisation (genes, population, species, ecological communities and ecosystems), a diversity index that behaves consistently across these different levels has so far been lacking, hindering the development of truly integrative biodiversity studies. To fill this important knowledge gap we present a unifying framework for the measurement of biodiversity across hierarchical levels of organisation. Our weighted, information-based decomposition framework is based on a Hill number of order q = 1, which weights all elements in proportion to their frequency and leads to diversity measures based on Shannon’s entropy. We investigated the numerical behaviour of our approach with simulations and showed that it can accurately describe complex spatial hierarchical structures. To demonstrate the intuitive and straightforward interpretation of our diversity measures in terms of effective number of components (alleles, species, etc.) we applied the framework to a real dataset on coral reef biodiversity. We expect our framework will have multiple applications covering the fields of conservation biology, community genetics, and eco-evolutionary dynamics.Translanguaging: Claudio Giovannesi’s postcolonial practicesDuncan, Derek Egertonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127552018-02-21T00:16:03Z2016-08-19T00:00:00ZClaudio Giovannesi’s Fratelli d’Italia (2009) is a documentary about the lives of three teenagers of non-Italian origins living in the Roman periphery. The third episode of the film features Nader, a second generation Italian–Egyptian and his conflicts both at school and in his family. Nader Sarhan starred in Giovannesi’s later Alì ha gli occhi azzurri (2012), a feature film whose plot was loosely inspired by the life in Ostia of his younger self. Giovannesi blurs the line between documentary and fiction by casting Nader as ‘himself’ (members of his family also appear in both films). This blurring can be seen as one example of ‘translanguaging’, a way of moving across linguistic and cultural systems which suggests their permeability. Practices of translanguaging allow a movement across the familiar binary logic of the bi-national, pointing to quotidian practices of cultural difference with no clear culture of origin nor host. Nader’s family’s move between Arabic and Italian as they constantly re-negotiate their cultural values. Giovannesi reworks the familiar defining link between territory and language, yet the films offer no celebratory account of multilingual and multi-ethnic Europe.
2016-08-19T00:00:00ZDuncan, Derek EgertonClaudio Giovannesi’s Fratelli d’Italia (2009) is a documentary about the lives of three teenagers of non-Italian origins living in the Roman periphery. The third episode of the film features Nader, a second generation Italian–Egyptian and his conflicts both at school and in his family. Nader Sarhan starred in Giovannesi’s later Alì ha gli occhi azzurri (2012), a feature film whose plot was loosely inspired by the life in Ostia of his younger self. Giovannesi blurs the line between documentary and fiction by casting Nader as ‘himself’ (members of his family also appear in both films). This blurring can be seen as one example of ‘translanguaging’, a way of moving across linguistic and cultural systems which suggests their permeability. Practices of translanguaging allow a movement across the familiar binary logic of the bi-national, pointing to quotidian practices of cultural difference with no clear culture of origin nor host. Nader’s family’s move between Arabic and Italian as they constantly re-negotiate their cultural values. Giovannesi reworks the familiar defining link between territory and language, yet the films offer no celebratory account of multilingual and multi-ethnic Europe.Real-time observation of conformational switching in single conjugated polymer chainsTenopala Carmona, FranciscoFronk, StephanieBazan, Guillermo C.Samuel, Ifor David WilliamPenedo-Esteiro, Juan Carloshttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127542018-03-06T16:30:04Z2018-02-16T00:00:00ZConjugated polymers (CPs) are an important class of organic semiconductors that combine novel optoelectronic properties with simple processing from organic solvents. It is important to study CP conformation in solution to understand the physics of these materials and because it affects the properties of solution-processed films. Single-molecule techniques are unique in their ability to extract information on a chain-to-chain basis; however, in the context of CPs, technical challenges have limited their general application to host matrices or semiliquid environments that constrain the conformational dynamics of the polymer. We introduce a conceptually different methodology that enables measurements in organic solvents using the single-end anchoring of polymer chains to avoid diffusion while preserving polymer flexibility. We explore the effect of organic solvents and show that, in addition to chain-to-chain conformational heterogeneity, collapsed and extended polymer segments can coexist within the same chain. The technique enables real-time solvent-exchange measurements, which show that anchored CP chains respond to sudden changes in solvent conditions on a subsecond time scale. Our results give an unprecedented glimpse into the mechanism of solvent-induced reorganization of CPs and can be expected to lead to a new range of techniques to investigate and conformationally manipulate CPs.
This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council UK (EPSRC) (project EP/N009886/1). F.T.-C. thanks EPSRC (Grant EP/L015110/1). S.F. acknowledges support from the National Science Foundation (Grant DMR 1411240). I.D.W.S. acknowledges support from a Royal Society Wolfson research merit award.
2018-02-16T00:00:00ZTenopala Carmona, FranciscoFronk, StephanieBazan, Guillermo C.Samuel, Ifor David WilliamPenedo-Esteiro, Juan CarlosConjugated polymers (CPs) are an important class of organic semiconductors that combine novel optoelectronic properties with simple processing from organic solvents. It is important to study CP conformation in solution to understand the physics of these materials and because it affects the properties of solution-processed films. Single-molecule techniques are unique in their ability to extract information on a chain-to-chain basis; however, in the context of CPs, technical challenges have limited their general application to host matrices or semiliquid environments that constrain the conformational dynamics of the polymer. We introduce a conceptually different methodology that enables measurements in organic solvents using the single-end anchoring of polymer chains to avoid diffusion while preserving polymer flexibility. We explore the effect of organic solvents and show that, in addition to chain-to-chain conformational heterogeneity, collapsed and extended polymer segments can coexist within the same chain. The technique enables real-time solvent-exchange measurements, which show that anchored CP chains respond to sudden changes in solvent conditions on a subsecond time scale. Our results give an unprecedented glimpse into the mechanism of solvent-induced reorganization of CPs and can be expected to lead to a new range of techniques to investigate and conformationally manipulate CPs.Controlling the gain contribution of background emitters in few-quantum-dot microlasersGericke, FSegnon, Mvon Helversen, M.M.Hopfmann, MHeindel, TSchneider, CHöfling, SvenKamp, MMusiał, APorte, XGies, CReitzenstein, Shttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127532018-03-11T00:33:28Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZWe provide experimental and theoretical insight into single-emitter lasing effects in a quantum dot (QD)-microlaser under controlled variation of background gain provided by off-resonant discrete gain centers. For that purpose, we apply an advanced two-color excitation concept where the background gain contribution of off-resonant QDs can be continuously tuned by precisely balancing the relative excitation power of two lasers emitting at different wavelengths. In this way, by selectively exciting a singleresonant QD and off-resonant QDs, we identify distinct single-QD signatures in the lasing characteristics and distinguish between gain contributions of a single resonant emitter and a countable number of offresonant background emitters to the optical output of the microlaser. Our work addresses the importantquestion whether single-QD lasing is feasible in experimentally accessible systems and shows that, for the investigated microlaser, the single-QD gain needs to be supported by the background gain contribution ofoff-resonant QDs to reach the transition to lasing. Interestingly, while a single QD cannot drive the investigated micropillar into lasing, its relative contribution to the emission can be as high as 70% and it dominates the statistics of emitted photons in the intermediate excitation regime below threshold.
Funding: European Research Council under the European Union's Seventh Framework ERC Grant Agreement No. 615613; German Research Foundation via Grant-No.: Re2974/10-1, Gi1121/1-1.
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZGericke, FSegnon, Mvon Helversen, M.M.Hopfmann, MHeindel, TSchneider, CHöfling, SvenKamp, MMusiał, APorte, XGies, CReitzenstein, SWe provide experimental and theoretical insight into single-emitter lasing effects in a quantum dot (QD)-microlaser under controlled variation of background gain provided by off-resonant discrete gain centers. For that purpose, we apply an advanced two-color excitation concept where the background gain contribution of off-resonant QDs can be continuously tuned by precisely balancing the relative excitation power of two lasers emitting at different wavelengths. In this way, by selectively exciting a singleresonant QD and off-resonant QDs, we identify distinct single-QD signatures in the lasing characteristics and distinguish between gain contributions of a single resonant emitter and a countable number of offresonant background emitters to the optical output of the microlaser. Our work addresses the importantquestion whether single-QD lasing is feasible in experimentally accessible systems and shows that, for the investigated microlaser, the single-QD gain needs to be supported by the background gain contribution ofoff-resonant QDs to reach the transition to lasing. Interestingly, while a single QD cannot drive the investigated micropillar into lasing, its relative contribution to the emission can be as high as 70% and it dominates the statistics of emitted photons in the intermediate excitation regime below threshold.OMNIgene.SPUTUM suppresses contaminants whilst maintaining Mycobacterium tuberculosis viability and obviates cold-chain transportAzam, KhalideCadir, NureishaMadeira, CarlaGillespie, Stephen H.Sabiiti, Wilberhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127522018-03-15T13:30:09Z2018-02-16T00:00:00ZTuberculosis (TB) diagnostics are centralised, requiring long-distance transportation of specimens in most resource-limited settings. We evaluated the ability of OMNIgene.SPUTUM (OM-S) to obviate cold-chain transport of TB specimens. A two-arm (same-day and after 5 days sample processing) study was conducted to assess contamination rates and Mycobacterium tuberculosis viability in OM-S-treated samples against the standard decontamination procedure (SDP) in Mozambique, using Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) and mycobacterial growth indicator tube (MGIT) culture and molecular bacterial load assay. 270 specimens were processed using OM-S and SDP in same-day and 5-day arms. Contamination was lower in OM-S-treated than SDP-treated cultures: 12% versus 15% and 2% versus 27% in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively. M. tuberculosis recovery in OM-S-treated LJ cultures was 10% and 56% higher in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively, than SDP-treated cultures, but lower in MGIT (52% and 28% lower in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively). M. tuberculosis viable count was 1log estimated CFU·mL−1 lower in 5-day OM-S-treated sputa. OM-S was more effective at liquefying sputum with a shorter sample processing time: 22 min for culture. OM-S is simple to use and has demonstrated a high potency to suppress contaminants, maintenance of viability at ambient temperatures and higher M. tuberculosis recovery, particularly in the solid LJ cultures. Optimisation of OM-S to achieve higher MGIT culture positivity and shorter time to result will increase its application and utility in the clinical management of TB.
The study was funded by DNA Genotek Inc. Canada, the manufacturer of OMNIgene.SPUTUM (grant number SMD0-Z0B014).
2018-02-16T00:00:00ZAzam, KhalideCadir, NureishaMadeira, CarlaGillespie, Stephen H.Sabiiti, WilberTuberculosis (TB) diagnostics are centralised, requiring long-distance transportation of specimens in most resource-limited settings. We evaluated the ability of OMNIgene.SPUTUM (OM-S) to obviate cold-chain transport of TB specimens. A two-arm (same-day and after 5 days sample processing) study was conducted to assess contamination rates and Mycobacterium tuberculosis viability in OM-S-treated samples against the standard decontamination procedure (SDP) in Mozambique, using Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) and mycobacterial growth indicator tube (MGIT) culture and molecular bacterial load assay. 270 specimens were processed using OM-S and SDP in same-day and 5-day arms. Contamination was lower in OM-S-treated than SDP-treated cultures: 12% versus 15% and 2% versus 27% in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively. M. tuberculosis recovery in OM-S-treated LJ cultures was 10% and 56% higher in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively, than SDP-treated cultures, but lower in MGIT (52% and 28% lower in the same-day and 5-day arms, respectively). M. tuberculosis viable count was 1log estimated CFU·mL−1 lower in 5-day OM-S-treated sputa. OM-S was more effective at liquefying sputum with a shorter sample processing time: 22 min for culture. OM-S is simple to use and has demonstrated a high potency to suppress contaminants, maintenance of viability at ambient temperatures and higher M. tuberculosis recovery, particularly in the solid LJ cultures. Optimisation of OM-S to achieve higher MGIT culture positivity and shorter time to result will increase its application and utility in the clinical management of TB.The Gothic Bologna fragments in contextWolfe, Brendanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127502018-02-20T00:16:11Z2016-01-01T00:00:00ZThe Bologna Fragments’ language of attestation suggests a link to the Homoianism espoused by Wulfila and the Gothic kingdoms. This paper offers a brief treatment of the Homoian movement to deter misconceptions and differentiate it from Arianism. It turns then to the consideration of a few passages with potentially Trinitarian implications, and concludes that whatever the Fragments are about, they not only do not treat Trinitarian theology, but were not written in a context in which such ideas were in dispute. Finally, it notes the topos of race in one catena of the first folio.
2016-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, BrendanThe Bologna Fragments’ language of attestation suggests a link to the Homoianism espoused by Wulfila and the Gothic kingdoms. This paper offers a brief treatment of the Homoian movement to deter misconceptions and differentiate it from Arianism. It turns then to the consideration of a few passages with potentially Trinitarian implications, and concludes that whatever the Fragments are about, they not only do not treat Trinitarian theology, but were not written in a context in which such ideas were in dispute. Finally, it notes the topos of race in one catena of the first folio.Review Essay of C. S. Lewis' Lost Aeneid edited by Andy ReyesWolfe, Brendanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127492018-02-25T00:33:14Z2011-01-01T00:00:00ZISBN: 9781620323861
2011-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, BrendanIntragroup and intragenomic conflict over chemical defense against predatorsBest, RebekahRuxton, Graeme D.Gardner, Andyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127482018-03-18T02:30:29Z2018-02-19T00:00:00ZInsects are often chemically-defended against predators. There is considerable evidence for a group-beneficial element to their defences, and an associated potential for individuals to curtail their own investment in costly defence whilst benefitting from the investments of others, termed “automimicry”. Although females in chemically-defended taxa often lay their eggs in clusters, leading to siblings living in close proximity, current models of automimicry have neglected kin-selection effects, which may be expected to curb the evolution of such selfishness. Here we develop a general theory of automimicry that explicitly incorporates kin selection. We investigate how female promiscuity modulates intragroup and intragenomic conflicts over investment into chemical defence, finding that individuals are favoured to invest less than is optimal for their group, and that maternal-origin genes favour greater investment than do paternal-origin genes. We translate these conflicts into readily-testable predictions concerning gene-expression patterns and the phenotypic consequences of genomic perturbations, and discuss how our results may inform gene discovery in relation to economically-important agricultural products.
AG is supported by a NERC Independent Research Fellowship (NE/K009524/1).
2018-02-19T00:00:00ZBest, RebekahRuxton, Graeme D.Gardner, AndyInsects are often chemically-defended against predators. There is considerable evidence for a group-beneficial element to their defences, and an associated potential for individuals to curtail their own investment in costly defence whilst benefitting from the investments of others, termed “automimicry”. Although females in chemically-defended taxa often lay their eggs in clusters, leading to siblings living in close proximity, current models of automimicry have neglected kin-selection effects, which may be expected to curb the evolution of such selfishness. Here we develop a general theory of automimicry that explicitly incorporates kin selection. We investigate how female promiscuity modulates intragroup and intragenomic conflicts over investment into chemical defence, finding that individuals are favoured to invest less than is optimal for their group, and that maternal-origin genes favour greater investment than do paternal-origin genes. We translate these conflicts into readily-testable predictions concerning gene-expression patterns and the phenotypic consequences of genomic perturbations, and discuss how our results may inform gene discovery in relation to economically-important agricultural products.Pseudomonas aeruginosa intensive care unit outbreak : winnowing of transmissions with molecular and genomic typingParcell, Benjamin J.Oravcova, KatarinaPinheiro, MiguelHolden, Matthew T. G.Phillips, GabbyTurton, Jane F.Gillespie, Stephen H.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127472018-03-01T01:30:10Z2018-03-01T00:00:00ZBackground: Pseudomonas aeruginosa healthcare outbreaks can be time consuming and difficult to investigate. Guidance does not specify which typing technique is most practical to base decisions on. Aim: We explore the usefulness of whole genome sequencing (WGS) in the investigation of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa outbreak describing how it compares with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis. Methods: Six patient isolates and six environmental samples from an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) positive for P. aeruginosa over two years underwent VNTR, PFGE and WGS. Findings: VNTR and PFGE were required to fully determine the potential source of infection and rule out others. WGS results unambiguously distinguished linked isolates giving greater assurance of the transmission route between wash hand basin (WHB) water and two patients supporting control measures employed. Conclusion: WGS provided detailed information without need for further typing. When allied to epidemiological information it can be used to understand outbreak situations rapidly and with certainty. Implementation of WGS in real-time would be a major advance in day-to-day practice. It could become a standard of care as it becomes more widespread due to its reproducibility and reduction in costs.
Bioinformatics and computational biology analyses were supported by the University of St Andrews Bioinformatics Unit which is funded by a Wellcome Trust ISSF award [grant 097831/Z/11/Z]. BJP, KO, MP, MTGH, GP and SHG are funded by the Chief Scientist Office through the Scottish Infection Research Network, a part of the SHAIPI consortium grant reference number SIRN/10.
2018-03-01T00:00:00ZParcell, Benjamin J.Oravcova, KatarinaPinheiro, MiguelHolden, Matthew T. G.Phillips, GabbyTurton, Jane F.Gillespie, Stephen H.Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa healthcare outbreaks can be time consuming and difficult to investigate. Guidance does not specify which typing technique is most practical to base decisions on. Aim: We explore the usefulness of whole genome sequencing (WGS) in the investigation of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa outbreak describing how it compares with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis. Methods: Six patient isolates and six environmental samples from an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) positive for P. aeruginosa over two years underwent VNTR, PFGE and WGS. Findings: VNTR and PFGE were required to fully determine the potential source of infection and rule out others. WGS results unambiguously distinguished linked isolates giving greater assurance of the transmission route between wash hand basin (WHB) water and two patients supporting control measures employed. Conclusion: WGS provided detailed information without need for further typing. When allied to epidemiological information it can be used to understand outbreak situations rapidly and with certainty. Implementation of WGS in real-time would be a major advance in day-to-day practice. It could become a standard of care as it becomes more widespread due to its reproducibility and reduction in costs.The origin of the Palaeoproterozoic AMCG complexes in the Ukrainian Shield : new U-Pb ages and Hf isotopes in zirconShumlyanskyy, LeonidHawkesworth, ChrisBillström, KjellBogdanova, SvetlanaMytrokhyn, OleksandrRomer, RolfDhuime, BrunoClaesson, StefanErnst, RichardWhitehouse, MartinBilan, Olenahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127462018-03-11T01:36:49Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZThe Ukrainian shield hosts two Palaeoproterozoic anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) complexes (the Korosten and Korsun-Novomyrhorod complexes) that intruded Palaeoproterozoic continental crust in north-western and central parts of the shield, respectively. We report results of U-Pb zircon and baddeleyite dating of 16 samples from the Korosten plutonic complex (KPC), and 6 samples from the Korsun-Novomyrhorod plutonic complex (KNPC). Fifteen zircon samples from both complexes were also analysed for Hf isotopes. These new, together with previously published data indicate that the formation of the KPC started at c. 1815 Ma and continued until 1743 Ma with two main phases of magma emplacement at 1800-1780 and 1770-1758 Ma. Each of the main phases of magmatic activity included both basic and silicic members. The emplacement history of the KNPC is different from that of the KPC. The vast majority of the KNPC basic and silicic rocks were emplaced between c. 1757 and 1750 Ma; the youngest stages of the complex are represented by monzonites and syenites that were formed between 1748 and 1744 Ma. Both Ukrainian AMCG complexes are closely associated in space and time with mantle-derived mafic and ultramafic dykes. The Hf isotope ratios in the zircons indicate a predominantly crustal source for the initial melts with some input of juvenile Hf from mantle-derived tholeiite melts. The preferred model for the formation of the Ukrainian AMCG complexes involves the emplacement of large volumes of hot mantle-derived tholeiitic magma into the lower crust. This resulted in partial melting of mafic lower-crustal material, mixing of lower crustal and tholeiitic melts, and formation of ferromonzodioritic magmas. Further fractional crystallization of the ferromonzodioritic melts produced the spectrum of basic rocks in the AMCG complexes. Emplacement of the ferromonzodioritic and tholeiitic melts into the middle crust and their partial crystallization caused abundant melting of the ambient crust and formation of the large volumes of granitic rocks present in the complexes.
This research gained financial support granted by the Royal Society, UK (2006/R4 IJP), and the Swedish Institute, Sweden. This paper is NORDSIM contribution number 484, and publication no. 62 of the Large Igneous Provinces – Supercontinent Reconstruction – Resource Exploration Project (CAMIRO Project 08E03, and NSERC CRDPJ 419503-11) (www.supercontinent.org, www.camiro.org/exploration/ongoing-projects), and a contribution to IGCP 648.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZShumlyanskyy, LeonidHawkesworth, ChrisBillström, KjellBogdanova, SvetlanaMytrokhyn, OleksandrRomer, RolfDhuime, BrunoClaesson, StefanErnst, RichardWhitehouse, MartinBilan, OlenaThe Ukrainian shield hosts two Palaeoproterozoic anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) complexes (the Korosten and Korsun-Novomyrhorod complexes) that intruded Palaeoproterozoic continental crust in north-western and central parts of the shield, respectively. We report results of U-Pb zircon and baddeleyite dating of 16 samples from the Korosten plutonic complex (KPC), and 6 samples from the Korsun-Novomyrhorod plutonic complex (KNPC). Fifteen zircon samples from both complexes were also analysed for Hf isotopes. These new, together with previously published data indicate that the formation of the KPC started at c. 1815 Ma and continued until 1743 Ma with two main phases of magma emplacement at 1800-1780 and 1770-1758 Ma. Each of the main phases of magmatic activity included both basic and silicic members. The emplacement history of the KNPC is different from that of the KPC. The vast majority of the KNPC basic and silicic rocks were emplaced between c. 1757 and 1750 Ma; the youngest stages of the complex are represented by monzonites and syenites that were formed between 1748 and 1744 Ma. Both Ukrainian AMCG complexes are closely associated in space and time with mantle-derived mafic and ultramafic dykes. The Hf isotope ratios in the zircons indicate a predominantly crustal source for the initial melts with some input of juvenile Hf from mantle-derived tholeiite melts. The preferred model for the formation of the Ukrainian AMCG complexes involves the emplacement of large volumes of hot mantle-derived tholeiitic magma into the lower crust. This resulted in partial melting of mafic lower-crustal material, mixing of lower crustal and tholeiitic melts, and formation of ferromonzodioritic magmas. Further fractional crystallization of the ferromonzodioritic melts produced the spectrum of basic rocks in the AMCG complexes. Emplacement of the ferromonzodioritic and tholeiitic melts into the middle crust and their partial crystallization caused abundant melting of the ambient crust and formation of the large volumes of granitic rocks present in the complexes.Constraining timing and tectonic implications of Neoproterozoic metamorphic event in the Cathaysia Block, South ChinaYao, JinlongShu, LiangshuCawood, Peter A.Li, Jinyihttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127452018-02-19T00:16:04Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZThe Cathaysia Block of the South China Craton includes a Proterozoic basement that experienced a prolonged Precambrian crustal evolution but to date lacks evidence of Proterozoic metamorphic ages. At Lichuan and Jianning, in the Wuyi Domain of the eastern Cathaysia Block, Proterozoic rock units include migmatized paragneiss of the Wanyuan Group and minor amphibolite of the Tianjingping Formation, which are enveloped by schist of Mayuan Group, and all are intruded by Paleozoic and Mesozoic igneous rocks. Detrital zircon grains from the Wanyuan paragneiss display metamorphic rims that yield concordant weighted average 206Pb/238U ages of 860 ± 6 Ma and 435 ± 5 Ma, along with variably disconcordant ages with lower intercept ages of 442 ± 41 Ma. The zircon core ages range from 3015 Ma to 851 Ma, with three major age populations at 930–865 Ma, 1850–1200 Ma and 2650–2400 Ma. Detrital zircon grains from Mayuan schist samples at Jianning generally lack core-rim structures and yield three main age populations at 860–736 Ma, 1835–1775 Ma and 2720–2500 Ma. Metamorphic ages of ca. 860 Ma and ca. 435 Ma for the Wanyuan paragneiss along with the youngest detrital zircon constrain the depositional age of the protolith to ca. 865–860 Ma, whereas the Mayuan Group is younger and probably deposited after ca. 736 Ma. Characteristics of detrital zircon age populations along with regional geological data suggest accumulation of the Wanyuan Group in a convergent and/or collisional setting. Metamorphism and a possible subduction -collision process within the Cathaysia Block at around 860 Ma suggest it was not a unified block in early Neoproterozoic. The growth of ca. 440 Ma metamorphic rims is likely related to granitic magmatism, such as that exposed in the Lichuan region. The sparse evidence for early Neoproterozoic metamorphism likely reflects widespread overprinting by the Paleozoic tectonothermal event at around 440 Ma.
We acknowledge the financial support by the Major State Research Development Program of China (Grant No. 2016YFC0600202), National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 41330208 and 41572200) and State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research (Nanjing University) (ZZKT-201603).
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZYao, JinlongShu, LiangshuCawood, Peter A.Li, JinyiThe Cathaysia Block of the South China Craton includes a Proterozoic basement that experienced a prolonged Precambrian crustal evolution but to date lacks evidence of Proterozoic metamorphic ages. At Lichuan and Jianning, in the Wuyi Domain of the eastern Cathaysia Block, Proterozoic rock units include migmatized paragneiss of the Wanyuan Group and minor amphibolite of the Tianjingping Formation, which are enveloped by schist of Mayuan Group, and all are intruded by Paleozoic and Mesozoic igneous rocks. Detrital zircon grains from the Wanyuan paragneiss display metamorphic rims that yield concordant weighted average 206Pb/238U ages of 860 ± 6 Ma and 435 ± 5 Ma, along with variably disconcordant ages with lower intercept ages of 442 ± 41 Ma. The zircon core ages range from 3015 Ma to 851 Ma, with three major age populations at 930–865 Ma, 1850–1200 Ma and 2650–2400 Ma. Detrital zircon grains from Mayuan schist samples at Jianning generally lack core-rim structures and yield three main age populations at 860–736 Ma, 1835–1775 Ma and 2720–2500 Ma. Metamorphic ages of ca. 860 Ma and ca. 435 Ma for the Wanyuan paragneiss along with the youngest detrital zircon constrain the depositional age of the protolith to ca. 865–860 Ma, whereas the Mayuan Group is younger and probably deposited after ca. 736 Ma. Characteristics of detrital zircon age populations along with regional geological data suggest accumulation of the Wanyuan Group in a convergent and/or collisional setting. Metamorphism and a possible subduction -collision process within the Cathaysia Block at around 860 Ma suggest it was not a unified block in early Neoproterozoic. The growth of ca. 440 Ma metamorphic rims is likely related to granitic magmatism, such as that exposed in the Lichuan region. The sparse evidence for early Neoproterozoic metamorphism likely reflects widespread overprinting by the Paleozoic tectonothermal event at around 440 Ma.Learning behaviour and learning outcomes : the roles for social influence and field of studySmyth, LillianMavor, Kenneth I.Platow, Michael J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127442018-02-19T00:16:07Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZResearch has demonstrated a significant role of discipline social identification in predicting learning approaches, even controlling for individual differences. Smyth et al. (Educ Psychol 35(1):53–72, 2015. doi:10.1080/01443410.2013.822962) suggest that learners share discipline-based social identifications, and that this identification, in combination with relevant norms, influences the adoption of learning approaches. The current paper extends this analysis in two directions. First, the effect of broad field of study is examined for systematic differences across content domains. Secondly, the model examines effects on student perceptions of teaching quality and intentions to continue within a discipline. Results provide support for Smyth et al.’s (2015) model, demonstrating links between discipline identification, perceived norms, learning approaches and outcomes. Strongly identified students, students who perceived deep learning norms and students taking a deep learning approach all reported more positive outcomes. Disciplinary variations in responses to learning approaches and outcomes were also found, broadly in line with that found in the Biglan–Becher literature.
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZSmyth, LillianMavor, Kenneth I.Platow, Michael J.Research has demonstrated a significant role of discipline social identification in predicting learning approaches, even controlling for individual differences. Smyth et al. (Educ Psychol 35(1):53–72, 2015. doi:10.1080/01443410.2013.822962) suggest that learners share discipline-based social identifications, and that this identification, in combination with relevant norms, influences the adoption of learning approaches. The current paper extends this analysis in two directions. First, the effect of broad field of study is examined for systematic differences across content domains. Secondly, the model examines effects on student perceptions of teaching quality and intentions to continue within a discipline. Results provide support for Smyth et al.’s (2015) model, demonstrating links between discipline identification, perceived norms, learning approaches and outcomes. Strongly identified students, students who perceived deep learning norms and students taking a deep learning approach all reported more positive outcomes. Disciplinary variations in responses to learning approaches and outcomes were also found, broadly in line with that found in the Biglan–Becher literature.Moving beyond being a ‘good doctor’ to thinking about ‘good doctoring processes’Gordon, Lisi J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127432018-02-19T00:16:06Z2017-03-01T00:00:00Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZGordon, Lisi J.Exploring children’s perspectives on the welfare needs of pet animalsMuldoon, Janine ClaireWilliams, Joanne MLawrence, Alistairhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127422018-02-19T00:15:59Z2016-01-01T00:00:00ZChildren are increasingly viewed as important recipients of eduational interventions to improve animal welfare, yet research examining their perspectives is lacking, particularly within the UK. Helping children to care appropriately for animals depends, not least, on an ability to understand the needs of different species and correctly identify cues given by the animal that indicate its welfare state. This study began to explore: (a) children’s perceptions of welfare needs, focusing on four common pet animals; (b) influences on the development of knowledge; (c) beliefs about whether or not (all) animals are sentient, and (d) their confidence in identifying when their own pets are in need. Fourteen focus groups were carried out with 53 children aged 7 to 13 years. Findings highlighted an affirmative response that animals have feelings (dogs especially), albeit with doubts about this applying universally. There was wide variation in children’s knowledge of welfare needs, even among owners of the animal in question. Conversely, some children lacked confidence in spite of the extensive knowledge they had developed through direct experience. An important finding was a perceived difficulty in identifying the needs of particular species or specific types of need in their own pets. Fitting well with a recent emphasis on “positive welfare,” children felt that many animals need demonstrative love and attention, especially cats and dogs. While there is clearly scope for educating children about common needs and cues that indicate animals’ welfare state, other areas pose a greater challenge. Emotional connection seems important in the development of extensive knowledge and concern for welfare. Accordingly, animals that do not possess the kind of behavioral repertoire that is easy to interpret or allows for a perceived sense of reciprocity are possibly at risk of negative welfare experiences.
This work was supported by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (grant number AW1404).
2016-01-01T00:00:00ZMuldoon, Janine ClaireWilliams, Joanne MLawrence, AlistairChildren are increasingly viewed as important recipients of eduational interventions to improve animal welfare, yet research examining their perspectives is lacking, particularly within the UK. Helping children to care appropriately for animals depends, not least, on an ability to understand the needs of different species and correctly identify cues given by the animal that indicate its welfare state. This study began to explore: (a) children’s perceptions of welfare needs, focusing on four common pet animals; (b) influences on the development of knowledge; (c) beliefs about whether or not (all) animals are sentient, and (d) their confidence in identifying when their own pets are in need. Fourteen focus groups were carried out with 53 children aged 7 to 13 years. Findings highlighted an affirmative response that animals have feelings (dogs especially), albeit with doubts about this applying universally. There was wide variation in children’s knowledge of welfare needs, even among owners of the animal in question. Conversely, some children lacked confidence in spite of the extensive knowledge they had developed through direct experience. An important finding was a perceived difficulty in identifying the needs of particular species or specific types of need in their own pets. Fitting well with a recent emphasis on “positive welfare,” children felt that many animals need demonstrative love and attention, especially cats and dogs. While there is clearly scope for educating children about common needs and cues that indicate animals’ welfare state, other areas pose a greater challenge. Emotional connection seems important in the development of extensive knowledge and concern for welfare. Accordingly, animals that do not possess the kind of behavioral repertoire that is easy to interpret or allows for a perceived sense of reciprocity are possibly at risk of negative welfare experiences.Ultrafast Electronic Energy Transfer in an orthogonal molecular dyadWiebeler, ChristianPlasser, FelixHedley, Gordon J.Ruseckas, ArvydasSamuel, Ifor D. W.Schumacher, Stefanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127412018-02-18T00:16:07Z2017-03-02T00:00:00ZUnderstanding electronic energy transfer (EET) is an important ingredient in the development of artificial photosynthetic systems and photovoltaic technologies. Although EET is at the heart of these applications and crucially influences their light-harvesting efficiency, the nature of EET over short distances for covalently bound donor and acceptor units is often not well understood. Here we investigate EET in an orthogonal molecular dyad (BODT4) in which simple models fail to explain the very origin of EET. Based on nonadiabatic ab initio molecular dynamics calculations and fluorescence depolarization experiments we gain detailed microscopic insights into the ultrafast electro-vibrational dynamics following photoexcitation. Our analysis offers molecular-level insights into these processes and reveals that it takes place on timescales ≲ 100 fs and occurs through an intermediate charge-transfer state.
The St Andrews group acknowledges support from the European Research Council (grant number 321305) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (grant EP/L017008/1). I.D.W.S. also acknowledges support from a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award.
2017-03-02T00:00:00ZWiebeler, ChristianPlasser, FelixHedley, Gordon J.Ruseckas, ArvydasSamuel, Ifor D. W.Schumacher, StefanUnderstanding electronic energy transfer (EET) is an important ingredient in the development of artificial photosynthetic systems and photovoltaic technologies. Although EET is at the heart of these applications and crucially influences their light-harvesting efficiency, the nature of EET over short distances for covalently bound donor and acceptor units is often not well understood. Here we investigate EET in an orthogonal molecular dyad (BODT4) in which simple models fail to explain the very origin of EET. Based on nonadiabatic ab initio molecular dynamics calculations and fluorescence depolarization experiments we gain detailed microscopic insights into the ultrafast electro-vibrational dynamics following photoexcitation. Our analysis offers molecular-level insights into these processes and reveals that it takes place on timescales ≲ 100 fs and occurs through an intermediate charge-transfer state.Statistical issues in first-in-human studies on BIA 10-2474 : neglected comparison of protocol against practiceBird, Sheila M.Bailey, Rosemary A.Grieve, Andrew P.Senn, Stephenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127402018-02-18T00:16:16Z2017-03-15T00:00:00ZBy setting the regulatory-approved protocol for a suite of first-in-human studies on BIA 10-2474 against the subsequent French investigations, we highlight six key design and statistical issues which reinforce recommendations by a Royal Statistical Society Working Party which were made in the aftermath of cytokine release storm in six healthy volunteers in the UK in 2006. The 6 issues are dose determination, availability of pharmacokinetic results, dosing interval, stopping rules, appraisal by safety committee, and clear algorithm required if combining approvals for single and multiple ascending dose studies.
Funding information: European Union's FP7 programme, Grant/Award Number: 602552
2017-03-15T00:00:00ZBird, Sheila M.Bailey, Rosemary A.Grieve, Andrew P.Senn, StephenBy setting the regulatory-approved protocol for a suite of first-in-human studies on BIA 10-2474 against the subsequent French investigations, we highlight six key design and statistical issues which reinforce recommendations by a Royal Statistical Society Working Party which were made in the aftermath of cytokine release storm in six healthy volunteers in the UK in 2006. The 6 issues are dose determination, availability of pharmacokinetic results, dosing interval, stopping rules, appraisal by safety committee, and clear algorithm required if combining approvals for single and multiple ascending dose studies.A multiscale mathematical model of tumour invasive growthPeng, LuTrucu, DumitruLin, PingThompson, AlastairChaplain, Mark A. J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127392018-02-18T00:16:15Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZKnown as one of the hallmarks of cancer (Hanahan and Weinberg in Cell 100:57–70, 2000) cancer cell invasion of human body tissue is a complicated spatio-temporal multiscale process which enables a localised solid tumour to transform into a systemic, metastatic and fatal disease. This process explores and takes advantage of the reciprocal relation that solid tumours establish with the extracellular matrix (ECM) components and other multiple distinct cell types from the surrounding microenvironment. Through the secretion of various proteolytic enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases or the urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), the cancer cell population alters the configuration of the surrounding ECM composition and overcomes the physical barriers to ultimately achieve local cancer spread into the surrounding tissue. The active interplay between the tissue-scale tumour dynamics and the molecular mechanics of the involved proteolytic enzymes at the cell scale underlines the biologically multiscale character of invasion and raises the challenge of modelling this process with an appropriate multiscale approach. In this paper, we present a new two-scale moving boundary model of cancer invasion that explores the tissue-scale tumour dynamics in conjunction with the molecular dynamics of the urokinase plasminogen activation system. Building on the multiscale moving boundary method proposed in Trucu et al. (Multiscale Model Simul 11(1):309–335, 2013), the modelling that we propose here allows us to study the changes in tissue-scale tumour morphology caused by the cell-scale uPA microdynamics occurring along the invasive edge of the tumour. Our computational simulation results demonstrate a range of heterogeneous dynamics which are qualitatively similar to the invasive growth patterns observed in a number of different types of cancer, such as the tumour infiltrative growth patterns discussed in Ito et al. (J Gastroenterol 47:1279–1289, 2012).
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZPeng, LuTrucu, DumitruLin, PingThompson, AlastairChaplain, Mark A. J.Known as one of the hallmarks of cancer (Hanahan and Weinberg in Cell 100:57–70, 2000) cancer cell invasion of human body tissue is a complicated spatio-temporal multiscale process which enables a localised solid tumour to transform into a systemic, metastatic and fatal disease. This process explores and takes advantage of the reciprocal relation that solid tumours establish with the extracellular matrix (ECM) components and other multiple distinct cell types from the surrounding microenvironment. Through the secretion of various proteolytic enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases or the urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), the cancer cell population alters the configuration of the surrounding ECM composition and overcomes the physical barriers to ultimately achieve local cancer spread into the surrounding tissue. The active interplay between the tissue-scale tumour dynamics and the molecular mechanics of the involved proteolytic enzymes at the cell scale underlines the biologically multiscale character of invasion and raises the challenge of modelling this process with an appropriate multiscale approach. In this paper, we present a new two-scale moving boundary model of cancer invasion that explores the tissue-scale tumour dynamics in conjunction with the molecular dynamics of the urokinase plasminogen activation system. Building on the multiscale moving boundary method proposed in Trucu et al. (Multiscale Model Simul 11(1):309–335, 2013), the modelling that we propose here allows us to study the changes in tissue-scale tumour morphology caused by the cell-scale uPA microdynamics occurring along the invasive edge of the tumour. Our computational simulation results demonstrate a range of heterogeneous dynamics which are qualitatively similar to the invasive growth patterns observed in a number of different types of cancer, such as the tumour infiltrative growth patterns discussed in Ito et al. (J Gastroenterol 47:1279–1289, 2012).Broadcasting the self : autofiction, television and representations of authorship in contemporary French literatureHugueny-Leger, Elise Simone Mariehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127382018-02-18T00:16:14Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZThis article examines the rise of autofiction as literary notion and cultural phenomenon in modern France. The past decades saw the rise of texts which not only challenge the convention of traditional autobiography and its reader-writer ‘pact’, but also integrate visual modes of representation in the fabric of the narrative, as tools and metaphors for the process of projection of the self that is autofiction. As television became an essential medium to promote and disseminate the figure of the intellectual in France, it has also been used as a tool to shape and manipulate the notion of authorship in life-writing. Drawing on examples including Duras’s televised performance and more recent texts by Beigbeder, Angot, Nothomb and Delaume, this article examines the use of the televised medium as site of contention for authors who have aptly exploited the potential of the small screen within and outside their textual productions. The conclusion asks if autofiction can be perceived as a literary equivalent of reality television.
This work was supported by a research grant from the Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland which funded research at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZHugueny-Leger, Elise Simone MarieThis article examines the rise of autofiction as literary notion and cultural phenomenon in modern France. The past decades saw the rise of texts which not only challenge the convention of traditional autobiography and its reader-writer ‘pact’, but also integrate visual modes of representation in the fabric of the narrative, as tools and metaphors for the process of projection of the self that is autofiction. As television became an essential medium to promote and disseminate the figure of the intellectual in France, it has also been used as a tool to shape and manipulate the notion of authorship in life-writing. Drawing on examples including Duras’s televised performance and more recent texts by Beigbeder, Angot, Nothomb and Delaume, this article examines the use of the televised medium as site of contention for authors who have aptly exploited the potential of the small screen within and outside their textual productions. The conclusion asks if autofiction can be perceived as a literary equivalent of reality television.A Calendar of Happenings : Allan Kaprow, counter-chronologies and cataloguing performance, c. 1970Spencer, Catherine Elizabethhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127372018-02-18T00:16:13Z2016-06-01T00:00:00Z2016-06-01T00:00:00ZSpencer, Catherine ElizabethMeasuring the landscape of civil war : evaluating geographic coding decisions with historic data from the Mau Mau rebellionDouglass, Rex W.Harkness, Kristen A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127352018-02-20T11:30:05Z2018-02-15T00:00:00ZSubnational conflict research increasingly utilizes georeferenced event datasets to understand contentious politics and violence. Yet, how exactly locations are mapped to particular geographies, especially from unstructured text sources such as newspaper reports and archival records, remains opaque and few best practices exist for guiding researchers through the subtle but consequential decisions made during geolocation. We begin to address this gap by developing a systematic approach to georeferencing that articulates the strategies available, empirically diagnoses problems of bias created by both the data-generating process and researcher-controlled tasks, and provides new generalizable tools for simultaneously optimizing both the recovery and accuracy of coordinates. We then empirically evaluate our process and tools against new microlevel data on the Mau Mau Rebellion (Colonial Kenya 1952-1960), drawn from 20,000 pages of recently declassified British military intelligence reports. By leveraging a subset of this data that includes map codes alongside natural language location descriptions, we demonstrate how inappropriately georeferencing data can have important downstream consequences in terms of systematically biasing coefficients or altering statistical significance and how our tools can help alleviate these problems.
This research has been supported by grants from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (FA9550-09-1-0314) and the Department of Defense Minerva Initiative through the Office of Naval Research (N00014-14-0071).
2018-02-15T00:00:00ZDouglass, Rex W.Harkness, Kristen A.Subnational conflict research increasingly utilizes georeferenced event datasets to understand contentious politics and violence. Yet, how exactly locations are mapped to particular geographies, especially from unstructured text sources such as newspaper reports and archival records, remains opaque and few best practices exist for guiding researchers through the subtle but consequential decisions made during geolocation. We begin to address this gap by developing a systematic approach to georeferencing that articulates the strategies available, empirically diagnoses problems of bias created by both the data-generating process and researcher-controlled tasks, and provides new generalizable tools for simultaneously optimizing both the recovery and accuracy of coordinates. We then empirically evaluate our process and tools against new microlevel data on the Mau Mau Rebellion (Colonial Kenya 1952-1960), drawn from 20,000 pages of recently declassified British military intelligence reports. By leveraging a subset of this data that includes map codes alongside natural language location descriptions, we demonstrate how inappropriately georeferencing data can have important downstream consequences in terms of systematically biasing coefficients or altering statistical significance and how our tools can help alleviate these problems.MARISTEM- Stem cells of marine/aquatic invertebrates : from basic research to innovative applicationsBallarino, LorianoRinkevich, BaruchBartscherer, KerstinBurzynski, ArturCambier, SebastienCammarata, MatteoDomart-Coulon, IsabelleDrobne, DamjanaEncinas, JuanmaFrank, UriGeneviere, Anne-MarieHobmayer, BertLohelaid, HelikeLyons, DanielMartinez, PedroOliveri, PaolaPeric, LorenaPiraino, StefanoRamsak, AndrejaRakers, SebastianRentzsch, FabianRosner, AmaliaHenriques da Silva, TiagoSomorjai, Ildiko Maureen LaraSuleiman, SherifVarela Coelho, Anahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127342018-03-04T02:30:57Z2018-02-15T00:00:00ZThe “stem cells” discipline represents one of the most dynamic areas in biomedicine. While adult marine/aquatic invertebrate stem cell (MISC) biology is of prime research and medical interest, studies on stem cells from organisms outside the classical vertebrate (e.g., human, mouse, and zebrafish) and invertebrate (e.g., Drosophila, Caenorhabditis) models have not been pursued vigorously. Marine/aquatic invertebrates constitute the largest biodiversity and the widest phylogenetic radiation on Earth, from morphologically simple organisms (e.g., sponges, cnidarians), to the more complex mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms, and protochordates. These organisms contain a kaleidoscope of MISC-types that allow the production of a large number of novel bioactive-molecules, many of which are of significant potential interest for human health. MISCs further participate in aging and regeneration phenomena, including whole-body regeneration. For years, the European MISC-community has been highly fragmented and has established scarce ties with biomedical industries in an attempt to harness MISCs for human welfare. Thus, it is important to (i) consolidate the European community of researchers working on MISCs; (ii) promote and coordinate European research on MISC biology; (iii) stimulate young researchers to embark on research in MISC-biology; (iv) develop, validate, and share novel MISC tools and methodologies; (v) establish the MISC discipline as a forefront interest of biomedical disciplines, including nanobiomedicine; and vi) establish collaborations with industries to exploit MISCs as sources of bioactive molecules. In order to fill the recognized gaps, the EC-COST Action 16203 “MARISTEM” has recently been launched. At its initial stage, the consortium unites 26 scientists from EC countries, Cooperating countries, and Near Neighbor Countries.
This study is supported by the European Cooperation in Science & Technology program (EU COST). Grant title: “Stem cells of marine/aquatic invertebrates: from basic research to innovative applications” (MARISTEM).
2018-02-15T00:00:00ZBallarino, LorianoRinkevich, BaruchBartscherer, KerstinBurzynski, ArturCambier, SebastienCammarata, MatteoDomart-Coulon, IsabelleDrobne, DamjanaEncinas, JuanmaFrank, UriGeneviere, Anne-MarieHobmayer, BertLohelaid, HelikeLyons, DanielMartinez, PedroOliveri, PaolaPeric, LorenaPiraino, StefanoRamsak, AndrejaRakers, SebastianRentzsch, FabianRosner, AmaliaHenriques da Silva, TiagoSomorjai, Ildiko Maureen LaraSuleiman, SherifVarela Coelho, AnaThe “stem cells” discipline represents one of the most dynamic areas in biomedicine. While adult marine/aquatic invertebrate stem cell (MISC) biology is of prime research and medical interest, studies on stem cells from organisms outside the classical vertebrate (e.g., human, mouse, and zebrafish) and invertebrate (e.g., Drosophila, Caenorhabditis) models have not been pursued vigorously. Marine/aquatic invertebrates constitute the largest biodiversity and the widest phylogenetic radiation on Earth, from morphologically simple organisms (e.g., sponges, cnidarians), to the more complex mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms, and protochordates. These organisms contain a kaleidoscope of MISC-types that allow the production of a large number of novel bioactive-molecules, many of which are of significant potential interest for human health. MISCs further participate in aging and regeneration phenomena, including whole-body regeneration. For years, the European MISC-community has been highly fragmented and has established scarce ties with biomedical industries in an attempt to harness MISCs for human welfare. Thus, it is important to (i) consolidate the European community of researchers working on MISCs; (ii) promote and coordinate European research on MISC biology; (iii) stimulate young researchers to embark on research in MISC-biology; (iv) develop, validate, and share novel MISC tools and methodologies; (v) establish the MISC discipline as a forefront interest of biomedical disciplines, including nanobiomedicine; and vi) establish collaborations with industries to exploit MISCs as sources of bioactive molecules. In order to fill the recognized gaps, the EC-COST Action 16203 “MARISTEM” has recently been launched. At its initial stage, the consortium unites 26 scientists from EC countries, Cooperating countries, and Near Neighbor Countries.Structural study of the coordination behavior of a tetradentate NO3-donor amino alcohol ligand toward a CdII:HgII mixtureMardani, ZahraGolsanamlou, ValiKhodavandegar, SabaMoeini, KeyvanSlawin, Alexandra M. Z.Woollins, J. Derekhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127332018-02-17T00:16:09Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZIn this work, the reaction of 2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol (NTE) with a 1:1 mixture of CdI2 and HgI2 is investigated. The complex [Cd(NTE)2][Hg2(μ-I)2I4] was synthesized and identified by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure of the [HNTE]Cl salt is also presented. In the crystal structure of the complex, the cadmium atom has a CdN2O6 environment in a slightly distorted cube geometry. This geometry is one of the rare cube geometries with a minimum distortion among the Cambridge Structural Database structures for cadmium complexes. The anionic moiety has a binuclear structure with the mercury atoms being in tetrahedral environments. In the network of the complex, in addition to O−H · · · I hydrogen bonds, there are I · · · I interactions which lead to ten-membered rings.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZMardani, ZahraGolsanamlou, ValiKhodavandegar, SabaMoeini, KeyvanSlawin, Alexandra M. Z.Woollins, J. DerekIn this work, the reaction of 2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol (NTE) with a 1:1 mixture of CdI2 and HgI2 is investigated. The complex [Cd(NTE)2][Hg2(μ-I)2I4] was synthesized and identified by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure of the [HNTE]Cl salt is also presented. In the crystal structure of the complex, the cadmium atom has a CdN2O6 environment in a slightly distorted cube geometry. This geometry is one of the rare cube geometries with a minimum distortion among the Cambridge Structural Database structures for cadmium complexes. The anionic moiety has a binuclear structure with the mercury atoms being in tetrahedral environments. In the network of the complex, in addition to O−H · · · I hydrogen bonds, there are I · · · I interactions which lead to ten-membered rings.The University in Dissent, by Gary Rolfe, London, Routledge and the Society for Research into Higher EducationCarver, Markhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127322018-03-18T00:33:11Z2014-01-01T00:00:00Z2014-01-01T00:00:00ZCarver, MarkIs countershading camouflage robust to lighting change due to weather?Penacchio, OlivierLovell, P. GeorgeHarris, Julie M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127312018-02-17T00:16:09Z2018-02-07T00:00:00ZCountershading is a pattern of colouration thought to have evolved in order to implement camouflage. By adopting a pattern of colouration that makes the surface facing towards the sun darker and the surface facing away from the sun lighter, the overall amount of light reflected off an animal can be made more uniformly bright. Countershading could hence contribute to visual camouflage by increasing background matching or reducing cues to shape. However, the usefulness of countershading is constrained by a particular pattern delivering ‘optimal’ camouflage only for very specific lighting conditions. In the current study, we test the robustness of countershading camouflage to lighting change due to weather, using human participants as a ‘generic’ predator. In a simulated 3D environment, we constructed an array of simple leaf-shaped items and a single ellipsoidal target ‘prey’. We set these items in two light environments: strongly directional ‘sunny’ and more diffuse ‘cloudy’. The target object was given the optimal pattern of countershading for one of these two environment types or displayed a uniform pattern. By measuring detection time and accuracy, we explored whether and how target detection depended on the match between the pattern of colouration on the target object and scene lighting. Detection times were longest when the countershading was appropriate to the illumination; incorrectly camouflaged targets were detected with a similar pattern of speed and accuracy to uniformly coloured targets. We conclude that structural changes in light environment, such as caused by differences in weather, do change the effectiveness of countershading camouflage.
This research was supported by the Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council UK, grants 610 BB/J000272/1 to JMH and PGL, and by ISSF funding from The Wellcome Trust to OP.
2018-02-07T00:00:00ZPenacchio, OlivierLovell, P. GeorgeHarris, Julie M.Countershading is a pattern of colouration thought to have evolved in order to implement camouflage. By adopting a pattern of colouration that makes the surface facing towards the sun darker and the surface facing away from the sun lighter, the overall amount of light reflected off an animal can be made more uniformly bright. Countershading could hence contribute to visual camouflage by increasing background matching or reducing cues to shape. However, the usefulness of countershading is constrained by a particular pattern delivering ‘optimal’ camouflage only for very specific lighting conditions. In the current study, we test the robustness of countershading camouflage to lighting change due to weather, using human participants as a ‘generic’ predator. In a simulated 3D environment, we constructed an array of simple leaf-shaped items and a single ellipsoidal target ‘prey’. We set these items in two light environments: strongly directional ‘sunny’ and more diffuse ‘cloudy’. The target object was given the optimal pattern of countershading for one of these two environment types or displayed a uniform pattern. By measuring detection time and accuracy, we explored whether and how target detection depended on the match between the pattern of colouration on the target object and scene lighting. Detection times were longest when the countershading was appropriate to the illumination; incorrectly camouflaged targets were detected with a similar pattern of speed and accuracy to uniformly coloured targets. We conclude that structural changes in light environment, such as caused by differences in weather, do change the effectiveness of countershading camouflage.An unusual flavin-dependent halogenase from the metagenome of the marine sponge Theonella swinhoei WASmith, Duncan R. M.Uria, Agustinus R.Helfrich, Eric J. N.Milbredt, Danielavan Pée, Karl-HeinzPiel, JörnGoss, Rebecca J. M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127302018-02-18T01:38:08Z2017-05-19T00:00:00ZUncultured bacteria from sponges have been demonstrated to be responsible for the generation of many potent, bioactive natural products including halogenated metabolites.1 The identification of gene clusters from the metagenomes of such bacterial communities enables the discovery of enzymes that mediate new and useful chemistries and allows insight to be gained into the biogenesis of potentially pharmacologically important natural products. Here we report a new pathway to the keramamides (krm); the first functional evidence for the existence of a distinct producer in the Theonella swinhoei WA chemotype is revealed, and a key enzyme on the pathway, a unique flavin dependent halogenase with a broad substrate specificity, and with potential as a useful new biocatalytic tool is described.
The authors thank EU BlueGenics (Seventh Framework Programme, Collaborative project “BlueGenics”, Grant no. 311848 RJMG and JP), the SNF (Grant no.205321_165695 to JP), the Helmut Horten Foundation (JP), and ERAIB (Grant no. 031A338A KHVP and RJMG) for funding.
2017-05-19T00:00:00ZSmith, Duncan R. M.Uria, Agustinus R.Helfrich, Eric J. N.Milbredt, Danielavan Pée, Karl-HeinzPiel, JörnGoss, Rebecca J. M.Uncultured bacteria from sponges have been demonstrated to be responsible for the generation of many potent, bioactive natural products including halogenated metabolites.1 The identification of gene clusters from the metagenomes of such bacterial communities enables the discovery of enzymes that mediate new and useful chemistries and allows insight to be gained into the biogenesis of potentially pharmacologically important natural products. Here we report a new pathway to the keramamides (krm); the first functional evidence for the existence of a distinct producer in the Theonella swinhoei WA chemotype is revealed, and a key enzyme on the pathway, a unique flavin dependent halogenase with a broad substrate specificity, and with potential as a useful new biocatalytic tool is described.Pesticides, pollution and the UK's Silent Spring, 1963-64 : Poison in the garden of EnglandClark, J. F. M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127292018-02-17T00:16:07Z2017-09-20T00:00:00ZDespite being characterized as ‘one of the worst agricultural accidents in Britain in the 1960s’, the ‘Smarden incident’ has never been subjected to a complete historical analysis. In 1963, a toxic waste spill in Kent coincided with the publication of the British edition of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. This essay argues that these events combined to ‘galvanize’ nascent toxic and environmental consciousness. A seemingly parochial toxic waste incident became part of a national phenomenon. The Smarden incident was considered to be indicative of the toxic hazards, which were borne of technocracy. It highlighted the inadequacies of existent concepts and practices for dealing with such hazards. As such, it was part of the fracturing of the consensus of progress: it made disagreements in expertise publicly visible. By the completion of the episode, ten different governmental ministries were involved. Douglas Good, a local veterinary surgeon, helped to effect the ‘reception’ of Silent Spring in the UK by telling the ‘Smarden story’ through local and national media and through the publications of anti-statist organizations.
Funding for much of the research for this essay was obtained from a Carnegie Trust Research Grant.
2017-09-20T00:00:00ZClark, J. F. M.Despite being characterized as ‘one of the worst agricultural accidents in Britain in the 1960s’, the ‘Smarden incident’ has never been subjected to a complete historical analysis. In 1963, a toxic waste spill in Kent coincided with the publication of the British edition of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. This essay argues that these events combined to ‘galvanize’ nascent toxic and environmental consciousness. A seemingly parochial toxic waste incident became part of a national phenomenon. The Smarden incident was considered to be indicative of the toxic hazards, which were borne of technocracy. It highlighted the inadequacies of existent concepts and practices for dealing with such hazards. As such, it was part of the fracturing of the consensus of progress: it made disagreements in expertise publicly visible. By the completion of the episode, ten different governmental ministries were involved. Douglas Good, a local veterinary surgeon, helped to effect the ‘reception’ of Silent Spring in the UK by telling the ‘Smarden story’ through local and national media and through the publications of anti-statist organizations.Remembering past exchanges : apes fail to use social cuesLewis, AmyBernsten, DortheCall, Josephttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127282018-02-16T14:30:04Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZNonhuman primates can remember events from their distant past. Furthermore, they can distinguish between very similar events by the process of binding. So far, research into long-term memory and binding has focused on the binding of contextual information, such as spatial surroundings. As such, we aimed to investigate if apes can bind and retrieve other types of information, specifically, social information. We presented great apes with three different object types; they learnt to exchange (via reinforcement) one of the object types with one experimenter and another type with a second, different, experimenter. The remaining object type was not reinforced by either of the experimenters. After a delay of two or ten weeks, we assessed the apes’ memory of which object type was exchanged with which experimenter. Additionally, we introduced a new experimenter to see if the apes could infer by exclusion that the remaining object type should be exchanged with the new experimenter. The apes successfully remembered which object types were exchanged, but failed to distinguish which object type was exchanged with whom. This failure to bind an object type to a specific person may have resulted from the apes learning to use a rule based on recency, as opposed to learning a conditional rule involving social information. However, results from a second experiment suggested they fail to incorporate social information even when no other information could guide successful performance. Our findings are consistent with research showing long-term memory in primates, but suggest that social information may not be bound in memory as readily as spatial or contextual information.
The authors thank the Danish National Research Foundation [DNRF89] for funding.
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZLewis, AmyBernsten, DortheCall, JosepNonhuman primates can remember events from their distant past. Furthermore, they can distinguish between very similar events by the process of binding. So far, research into long-term memory and binding has focused on the binding of contextual information, such as spatial surroundings. As such, we aimed to investigate if apes can bind and retrieve other types of information, specifically, social information. We presented great apes with three different object types; they learnt to exchange (via reinforcement) one of the object types with one experimenter and another type with a second, different, experimenter. The remaining object type was not reinforced by either of the experimenters. After a delay of two or ten weeks, we assessed the apes’ memory of which object type was exchanged with which experimenter. Additionally, we introduced a new experimenter to see if the apes could infer by exclusion that the remaining object type should be exchanged with the new experimenter. The apes successfully remembered which object types were exchanged, but failed to distinguish which object type was exchanged with whom. This failure to bind an object type to a specific person may have resulted from the apes learning to use a rule based on recency, as opposed to learning a conditional rule involving social information. However, results from a second experiment suggested they fail to incorporate social information even when no other information could guide successful performance. Our findings are consistent with research showing long-term memory in primates, but suggest that social information may not be bound in memory as readily as spatial or contextual information.Exploring students’ concepts of feedback as articulated in large-scale surveys: a useful proxy and some encouraging nuancesCarver, Markhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127272018-03-04T00:33:13Z2016-10-01T00:00:00ZSurveys asking Higher Education students about feedback tend to find similar results: feedback should be prompt, specific, understandable and regular. Efforts to improve the feedback experience therefore emphasises that feedback be more frequent, detailed and turnaround times reduced. However, indications that students misunderstand key phrases in the questions or have limited conceptions of feedback have also led to suggestions that these surveys should not be as influentialas they currently are. To explore students’ understanding of feedback in greater detail, 613 students completed a 35-item survey about a specific time they received feedback during a work-based learning placement. Results indicate that students typically saw feedback as straightforward communication where an exper ttells them what to do. However, principal component analysis of the survey responses indicated a pattern of responses in which students tacitly hold a more sophisticated understanding of feedback.Their patterns of response directly challenge many of the ways that feedback provision is currently monitored, suggesting better ways to evaluate and improve feedback provision. Curiously, these patterns of response had a close relationship with the standard questions used in the UK’s National Student Survey. Results therefore suggest that this national survey is still a robust measure of satisfaction with feedback, but learning how to improve the feedback experience requires asking different questions.
2016-10-01T00:00:00ZCarver, MarkSurveys asking Higher Education students about feedback tend to find similar results: feedback should be prompt, specific, understandable and regular. Efforts to improve the feedback experience therefore emphasises that feedback be more frequent, detailed and turnaround times reduced. However, indications that students misunderstand key phrases in the questions or have limited conceptions of feedback have also led to suggestions that these surveys should not be as influentialas they currently are. To explore students’ understanding of feedback in greater detail, 613 students completed a 35-item survey about a specific time they received feedback during a work-based learning placement. Results indicate that students typically saw feedback as straightforward communication where an exper ttells them what to do. However, principal component analysis of the survey responses indicated a pattern of responses in which students tacitly hold a more sophisticated understanding of feedback.Their patterns of response directly challenge many of the ways that feedback provision is currently monitored, suggesting better ways to evaluate and improve feedback provision. Curiously, these patterns of response had a close relationship with the standard questions used in the UK’s National Student Survey. Results therefore suggest that this national survey is still a robust measure of satisfaction with feedback, but learning how to improve the feedback experience requires asking different questions.South Korea’s engagement of Central Asia from the end of the Cold War to the "New Asia Initiative"Fumagalli, Matteohttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127262018-02-25T00:33:09Z2012-12-01T00:00:00ZThis paper examines South Korea’s engagement in Central Asia as a case study of the country’s broader efforts to establish itself as a more assertive regional and global economic and political player. Embedding the analysis in the account of the evolving nature of Korean-Central Asian relations over the past two decades, the paper locates Korea’s policy towards the region within its attempts to tackle energy vulnerability. Without the “political baggage” that accompanies the presence of other major players, Korea’s economically-driven country-specific strategy is yielding significant results.
2012-12-01T00:00:00ZFumagalli, MatteoThis paper examines South Korea’s engagement in Central Asia as a case study of the country’s broader efforts to establish itself as a more assertive regional and global economic and political player. Embedding the analysis in the account of the evolving nature of Korean-Central Asian relations over the past two decades, the paper locates Korea’s policy towards the region within its attempts to tackle energy vulnerability. Without the “political baggage” that accompanies the presence of other major players, Korea’s economically-driven country-specific strategy is yielding significant results.Sesqui-arrays, a generalisation of triple arraysBailey, Rosemary AnneCameron, Peter JephsonNilson, Tomashttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127252018-03-12T15:30:08Z2018-02-13T00:00:00ZA triple array is a rectangular array containing letters, each letter occurring equally often with no repeats in rows or columns, such that the number of letters common to two rows, two columns, or a row and a column are (possibly different) non-zero constants. Deleting the condition on the letters commonto a row and a column gives a double array. We propose the term sesqui-array for such an array when only the condition on pairs ofcolumns is deleted. Thus all triple arrays are sesqui-arrays.In this paper we give three constructions for sesqui-arrays. The first gives (n+1) x n2 arrays on n(n+1) letters for n>1. (Such an array for n=2 was found by Bagchi.) This construction uses Latin squares.The second uses the Sylvester graph, a subgraph of the Hoffman--Singleton graph, to build a good block design for 36 treatments in 42 blocks of size 6, and then uses this in a 7 x 36 sesqui-array for 42 letters. We also give a construction for K x (K-1)(K-2)/2 sesqui-arrays onK(K-1)/2 letters. This construction uses biplanes. It starts with a block of a biplane and produces an array which satisfies the requirements for a sesqui-array except possibly that of having no repeated letters in a row or column. We show that this condition holds if and only if the Hussain chains for the selected block contain no 4-cycles. A sufficient condition for the construction to give a triple array is that each Hussain chain is a union of 3-cycles; but this condition is not necessary, and we give a few further examples. We also discuss the question of which of these arrays provide good designs for experiments.
2018-02-13T00:00:00ZBailey, Rosemary AnneCameron, Peter JephsonNilson, TomasA triple array is a rectangular array containing letters, each letter occurring equally often with no repeats in rows or columns, such that the number of letters common to two rows, two columns, or a row and a column are (possibly different) non-zero constants. Deleting the condition on the letters commonto a row and a column gives a double array. We propose the term sesqui-array for such an array when only the condition on pairs ofcolumns is deleted. Thus all triple arrays are sesqui-arrays.In this paper we give three constructions for sesqui-arrays. The first gives (n+1) x n2 arrays on n(n+1) letters for n>1. (Such an array for n=2 was found by Bagchi.) This construction uses Latin squares.The second uses the Sylvester graph, a subgraph of the Hoffman--Singleton graph, to build a good block design for 36 treatments in 42 blocks of size 6, and then uses this in a 7 x 36 sesqui-array for 42 letters. We also give a construction for K x (K-1)(K-2)/2 sesqui-arrays onK(K-1)/2 letters. This construction uses biplanes. It starts with a block of a biplane and produces an array which satisfies the requirements for a sesqui-array except possibly that of having no repeated letters in a row or column. We show that this condition holds if and only if the Hussain chains for the selected block contain no 4-cycles. A sufficient condition for the construction to give a triple array is that each Hussain chain is a union of 3-cycles; but this condition is not necessary, and we give a few further examples. We also discuss the question of which of these arrays provide good designs for experiments.17O solid-state NMR spectroscopy of A2B2O7 oxides : quantitative isotopic enrichment and spectral acquisition?Fernandes, ArantxaMoran, RobertSneddon, ScottDawson, Daniel M.McKay, DavidBignami, Giulia P. M.Blanc, FrédéricWhittle, KarlAshbrook, Sharon E.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127232018-02-16T00:16:17Z2018-02-14T00:00:00ZThe potential of 17O NMR spectroscopy for the investigation of A2B2O7 ceramic oxides important in the encapsulation of radioactive waste, is demonstrated, with post-synthetic enrichment by exchange with 17O2 gas. For Y2Sn2O7, Y2Ti2O7 and La2Sn2O7 pyrochlores, enrichment of the two distinct O species is clearly non quantitative at lower temperatures (~700 °C and below) and at shorter times, despite these being used in prior work, with preferential enrichment of OA2B2 favoured over that of OA4. At higher temperatures, the 17O NMR spectra suggest that quantitative enrichment has been achieved, but the integrated signal intensities do not reflect the crystallographic 1:6 (O1:O2) ratio until corrected for differences in T1 relaxation rates and, more importantly, the contribution of the satellite transitions. 17O NMR spectra of Y2Zr2O7 and Y2Hf2O7 defect fluorites showed little difference with any variation in enrichment temperature or time, although an increase in the absolute level of enrichment (up to ~7.5%) was observed at higher temperature. DFT calculations show that the six distinct resonances observed cannot be assigned unambiguously, as each has contributions from more than one of the five possible next nearest neighbour environments. For La2Ti2O7, which adopts a layered perovskite-like structure, little difference in the spectral intensities is observed with enrichment time or temperature, although the highest absolute levels of enrichment (~13%) were obtained at higher temperature. This work demonstrates that 17O NMR has the potential to be a powerful probe of local structure and disorder in oxides, but that considerable care must be taken both in choosing the conditions for 17O enrichment and the experimental acquisition parameters if the necessary quantitative measurements are to be obtained for more complex systems.
We would like to thank the ERC (EU FP7 Consolidator Grant 614290 “EXONMR”) and EPSRC (EP/L505079/1, EP/M506631/1, EP/L005581/2 and EP/K031511/1). SEA would also like to thank the Royal Society and Wolfson Foundation for a merit award. The UK 850 MHz solid-state NMR Facility used in this research was funded by EPSRC and BBSRC (contract reference PR140003), as well as the University of Warwick including via part funding through Birmingham Science City Advanced Materials Projects 1 and 2 supported by Advantage West Midlands (AWM) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Collaborative assistance from the 850 MHz Facility Manager (Dinu Iuga, University of Warwick) is acknowledged. The research data (and/or materials) supporting this publication can be accessed at DOI: 10.17630/843cd0a1-4963-45f6-9285-10bf32c84c8d. Accepted 06/02/2018
2018-02-14T00:00:00ZFernandes, ArantxaMoran, RobertSneddon, ScottDawson, Daniel M.McKay, DavidBignami, Giulia P. M.Blanc, FrédéricWhittle, KarlAshbrook, Sharon E.The potential of 17O NMR spectroscopy for the investigation of A2B2O7 ceramic oxides important in the encapsulation of radioactive waste, is demonstrated, with post-synthetic enrichment by exchange with 17O2 gas. For Y2Sn2O7, Y2Ti2O7 and La2Sn2O7 pyrochlores, enrichment of the two distinct O species is clearly non quantitative at lower temperatures (~700 °C and below) and at shorter times, despite these being used in prior work, with preferential enrichment of OA2B2 favoured over that of OA4. At higher temperatures, the 17O NMR spectra suggest that quantitative enrichment has been achieved, but the integrated signal intensities do not reflect the crystallographic 1:6 (O1:O2) ratio until corrected for differences in T1 relaxation rates and, more importantly, the contribution of the satellite transitions. 17O NMR spectra of Y2Zr2O7 and Y2Hf2O7 defect fluorites showed little difference with any variation in enrichment temperature or time, although an increase in the absolute level of enrichment (up to ~7.5%) was observed at higher temperature. DFT calculations show that the six distinct resonances observed cannot be assigned unambiguously, as each has contributions from more than one of the five possible next nearest neighbour environments. For La2Ti2O7, which adopts a layered perovskite-like structure, little difference in the spectral intensities is observed with enrichment time or temperature, although the highest absolute levels of enrichment (~13%) were obtained at higher temperature. This work demonstrates that 17O NMR has the potential to be a powerful probe of local structure and disorder in oxides, but that considerable care must be taken both in choosing the conditions for 17O enrichment and the experimental acquisition parameters if the necessary quantitative measurements are to be obtained for more complex systems.Tuning the optical properties of silicon quantum dots via surface functionalization with conjugated aromatic fluorophoresAbdelhameed, MohammedRota Martir, DiegoChen, ShalimarXu, William Z.Oyeneye, Olabode O.Chakrabarti, SubrataZysman-Colman, EliCharpentier, Paul A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127222018-02-16T14:30:08Z2018-02-14T00:00:00ZSilicon Quantum Dots (SQDs) have recently attracted great interest due to their excellent optical properties, low cytotoxicity, and ease of surface modification. The size of SQDs and type of ligand on their surface has a great influence on their optical properties which is still poorly understood. Here we report the synthesis and spectroscopic studies of three families of unreported SQDs functionalized by covalently linking to the aromatic fluorophores, 9-vinylphenanthrene, 1-vinylpyrene, and 3-vinylperylene. The results showed that the prepared functionalized SQDs had a highly-controlled diameter by HR-TEM, ranging from 1.7–2.1 nm. The photophysical measurements of the assemblies provided clear evidence for efficient energy transfer from the fluorophore to the SQD core. Fӧrster energy transfer is the likely mechanism in these assemblies. As a result of the photogenerated energy transfer process, the emission color of the SQD core could be efficiently tuned and its emission quantum efficiency enhanced. To demonstrate the potential application of the synthesized SQDs for bioimaging of cancer cells, the water-soluble perylene- and pyrene-capped SQDs were examined for fluorescent imaging of HeLa cells. The SQDs were shown to be of low cytotoxicity.
The authors acknowledge Karen Nygard at UWO Biotron for assistance with confocal microscopy. This work was financially supported by NSERC Canada Discovery (Charpentier).
2018-02-14T00:00:00ZAbdelhameed, MohammedRota Martir, DiegoChen, ShalimarXu, William Z.Oyeneye, Olabode O.Chakrabarti, SubrataZysman-Colman, EliCharpentier, Paul A.Silicon Quantum Dots (SQDs) have recently attracted great interest due to their excellent optical properties, low cytotoxicity, and ease of surface modification. The size of SQDs and type of ligand on their surface has a great influence on their optical properties which is still poorly understood. Here we report the synthesis and spectroscopic studies of three families of unreported SQDs functionalized by covalently linking to the aromatic fluorophores, 9-vinylphenanthrene, 1-vinylpyrene, and 3-vinylperylene. The results showed that the prepared functionalized SQDs had a highly-controlled diameter by HR-TEM, ranging from 1.7–2.1 nm. The photophysical measurements of the assemblies provided clear evidence for efficient energy transfer from the fluorophore to the SQD core. Fӧrster energy transfer is the likely mechanism in these assemblies. As a result of the photogenerated energy transfer process, the emission color of the SQD core could be efficiently tuned and its emission quantum efficiency enhanced. To demonstrate the potential application of the synthesized SQDs for bioimaging of cancer cells, the water-soluble perylene- and pyrene-capped SQDs were examined for fluorescent imaging of HeLa cells. The SQDs were shown to be of low cytotoxicity.Categorizing click trains to increase taxonomic precision in echolocation click loggersPalmer, K. J.Brookes, KateRendell, Lukehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127212018-02-16T00:16:15Z2017-08-01T00:00:00ZPassive acoustic monitoring is an efficient way to study acoustically active animals but species identification remains a major challenge. C-PODs are popular logging devices that automatically detect odontocete echolocation clicks. However, the accompanying analysis software does not distinguish between delphinid species. Click train features logged by C-PODs were compared to frequency spectra from adjacently deployed continuous recorders. A generalized additive model was then used to categorize C-POD click trains into three groups: broadband click trains, produced by bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) or common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), frequency-banded click trains, produced by Risso's (Grampus griseus) or white beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris), and unknown click trains. Incorrect categorization rates for broadband and frequency banded clicks were 0.02 (SD 0.01), but only 30% of the click trains met the categorization threshold. To increase the proportion of categorized click trains, model predictions were pooled within acoustic encounters and a likelihood ratio threshold was used to categorize encounters. This increased the proportion of the click trains meeting either the broadband or frequency banded categorization threshold to 98%. Predicted species distribution at the 30 study sites matched well to visual sighting records from the region.
L.R. and K.J.P. were supported by Marine Scotland Science and the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland (MASTS) pooling initiative and their support is gratefully acknowledged. MASTS is funded by the Scottish Funding Council (grant reference HR09011) and contributing institutions.
2017-08-01T00:00:00ZPalmer, K. J.Brookes, KateRendell, LukePassive acoustic monitoring is an efficient way to study acoustically active animals but species identification remains a major challenge. C-PODs are popular logging devices that automatically detect odontocete echolocation clicks. However, the accompanying analysis software does not distinguish between delphinid species. Click train features logged by C-PODs were compared to frequency spectra from adjacently deployed continuous recorders. A generalized additive model was then used to categorize C-POD click trains into three groups: broadband click trains, produced by bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) or common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), frequency-banded click trains, produced by Risso's (Grampus griseus) or white beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris), and unknown click trains. Incorrect categorization rates for broadband and frequency banded clicks were 0.02 (SD 0.01), but only 30% of the click trains met the categorization threshold. To increase the proportion of categorized click trains, model predictions were pooled within acoustic encounters and a likelihood ratio threshold was used to categorize encounters. This increased the proportion of the click trains meeting either the broadband or frequency banded categorization threshold to 98%. Predicted species distribution at the 30 study sites matched well to visual sighting records from the region.An integrated perspective on RNA aptamer ligand-recognition models : clearing muddy watersMcCluskey, K.Penedo, J. Carloshttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127202018-02-16T00:16:07Z2017-03-14T00:00:00ZRiboswitches are short RNA motifs that sensitively and selectively bind cognate ligands to modulate gene expression. Like protein receptor-ligand pairs, their binding dynamics are traditionally categorized as following one of two paradigmatic mechanisms: conformational selection and induced fit. In conformational selection, ligand binding stabilizes a particular state already present in the receptor’s dynamic ensemble. In induced fit, ligand-receptor interactions enable the system to overcome the energetic barrier into a previously inaccessible state. In this article, we question whether a polarized division of RNA binding mechanisms truly meets the conceptual needs of the field. We will review the history behind this classification of RNA-ligand interactions, and the way induced fit in particular has been rehabilitated by single-molecule studies of RNA aptamers. We will highlight several recent results from single-molecule experimental studies of riboswitches that reveal gaps or even contradictions between common definitions of the two terms, and we will conclude by proposing a more robust framework that considers the range of RNA behaviors unveiled in recent years as a reality to be described, rather than an increasingly unwieldy set of exceptions to the traditional models.
2017-03-14T00:00:00ZMcCluskey, K.Penedo, J. CarlosRiboswitches are short RNA motifs that sensitively and selectively bind cognate ligands to modulate gene expression. Like protein receptor-ligand pairs, their binding dynamics are traditionally categorized as following one of two paradigmatic mechanisms: conformational selection and induced fit. In conformational selection, ligand binding stabilizes a particular state already present in the receptor’s dynamic ensemble. In induced fit, ligand-receptor interactions enable the system to overcome the energetic barrier into a previously inaccessible state. In this article, we question whether a polarized division of RNA binding mechanisms truly meets the conceptual needs of the field. We will review the history behind this classification of RNA-ligand interactions, and the way induced fit in particular has been rehabilitated by single-molecule studies of RNA aptamers. We will highlight several recent results from single-molecule experimental studies of riboswitches that reveal gaps or even contradictions between common definitions of the two terms, and we will conclude by proposing a more robust framework that considers the range of RNA behaviors unveiled in recent years as a reality to be described, rather than an increasingly unwieldy set of exceptions to the traditional models.Serum and blood based biomarkers for lung cancer screening : a systematic reviewChu, Gavin C. W.Lazare, KimSullivan, Frankhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127192018-03-18T02:30:30Z2018-02-13T00:00:00ZBackground Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. Although low-dose CT (LDCT) is recommended for lung cancer screening in high-risk populations and may decrease lung cancer mortality, there is a need to improve the accuracy of lung cancer screening to decrease over-diagnosis and morbidity. Blood and serum-based biomarkers, including EarlyCDT-lung and microRNA based biomarkers, are promising adjuncts to LDCT in lung cancer screening. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of EarlyCDT-lung, micro-RNA signature classifier (MSC), and miR-test, and their impact on lung cancer-related mortality and all-cause mortality. Methods References were identified using searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and Ovid Medline® from January 2000 to November 2015. Phase three or greater studies in the English language evaluating the diagnostic performance of EarlyCDT-lung, MSC, and miR-test were selected for inclusion. Results Three phase 3 studies were identified, one evaluating EarlyCDT-lung, one evaluating miR-Test, and one evaluating MSC respectively. No phase 4 or 5 studies were identified. All three biomarker assays show promise for the detection of lung cancer. MSC shows promise when used in conjunction with LDCT for lung cancer detection, achieving a positive likelihood ratio of 18.6 if both LDCT and MSC are positive, and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.03 if both LDCT and MSC are negative. However, there is a paucity of high-quality studies that can guide clinical implementation. Conclusion There is currently no high quality evidence to support or guide the implementation of these biomarkers in clinical practice. Reports of further research at stages four and five for these, and other promising methods, is required.
2018-02-13T00:00:00ZChu, Gavin C. W.Lazare, KimSullivan, FrankBackground Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. Although low-dose CT (LDCT) is recommended for lung cancer screening in high-risk populations and may decrease lung cancer mortality, there is a need to improve the accuracy of lung cancer screening to decrease over-diagnosis and morbidity. Blood and serum-based biomarkers, including EarlyCDT-lung and microRNA based biomarkers, are promising adjuncts to LDCT in lung cancer screening. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of EarlyCDT-lung, micro-RNA signature classifier (MSC), and miR-test, and their impact on lung cancer-related mortality and all-cause mortality. Methods References were identified using searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and Ovid Medline® from January 2000 to November 2015. Phase three or greater studies in the English language evaluating the diagnostic performance of EarlyCDT-lung, MSC, and miR-test were selected for inclusion. Results Three phase 3 studies were identified, one evaluating EarlyCDT-lung, one evaluating miR-Test, and one evaluating MSC respectively. No phase 4 or 5 studies were identified. All three biomarker assays show promise for the detection of lung cancer. MSC shows promise when used in conjunction with LDCT for lung cancer detection, achieving a positive likelihood ratio of 18.6 if both LDCT and MSC are positive, and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.03 if both LDCT and MSC are negative. However, there is a paucity of high-quality studies that can guide clinical implementation. Conclusion There is currently no high quality evidence to support or guide the implementation of these biomarkers in clinical practice. Reports of further research at stages four and five for these, and other promising methods, is required.Comparative evaluation of a novel solar powered low cost ophthalmoscope (Arclight) by eye healthcare workers in MalawiBlundell, RebeccaRoberts, DavidFioratou, EvridikiAbraham, CarlMsosa, JosephChirambo, TamaraBlaikie, Andrewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127182018-02-25T00:33:13Z2018-02-12T00:00:00ZThis study compared a novel low-cost solar powered direct ophthalmoscope called the Arclight with a traditional direct ophthalmoscope (TDO). After appropriate training, 25 Malawian eye healthcare workers were asked to examine 12 retinal images placed in a teaching manikin head with both the Arclight ophthalmoscope and a traditional direct ophthalmoscope (Keeler Professional V.2.8). Participants were scored on their ability to identify clinical signs, to make a diagnosis and how long they took to make a diagnosis. They were also asked to score each ophthalmoscope for ‘ease of use’. Statistically significant differences were found in favour of the Arclight in the number of clinical signs identified, correct diagnoses made and ease of use. The ophthalmoscopes were equally effective as a screening tool for diabetic retinopathy, and there was no statistically difference in time to diagnosis. The authors conclude that the Arclight offers an easy to use, low cost alternative to the traditional direct ophthalmoscope to meet the demands for screening and diagnosis of visually impairing eye disorders in low-income and middle-income countries.
This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
2018-02-12T00:00:00ZBlundell, RebeccaRoberts, DavidFioratou, EvridikiAbraham, CarlMsosa, JosephChirambo, TamaraBlaikie, AndrewThis study compared a novel low-cost solar powered direct ophthalmoscope called the Arclight with a traditional direct ophthalmoscope (TDO). After appropriate training, 25 Malawian eye healthcare workers were asked to examine 12 retinal images placed in a teaching manikin head with both the Arclight ophthalmoscope and a traditional direct ophthalmoscope (Keeler Professional V.2.8). Participants were scored on their ability to identify clinical signs, to make a diagnosis and how long they took to make a diagnosis. They were also asked to score each ophthalmoscope for ‘ease of use’. Statistically significant differences were found in favour of the Arclight in the number of clinical signs identified, correct diagnoses made and ease of use. The ophthalmoscopes were equally effective as a screening tool for diabetic retinopathy, and there was no statistically difference in time to diagnosis. The authors conclude that the Arclight offers an easy to use, low cost alternative to the traditional direct ophthalmoscope to meet the demands for screening and diagnosis of visually impairing eye disorders in low-income and middle-income countries.Germanic language and Germanic HomoianismWolfe, Brendanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127172018-02-18T01:39:13Z2014-01-01T00:00:00ZReligious and linguistic lines overlapped in Late Antiquity, when the Homoian heresy was eventually almost exclusively associated with Germanic-speakers. This article will explore the genesis of this correlation, and compare it to other historical religious-linguistic divisions.
2014-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, BrendanReligious and linguistic lines overlapped in Late Antiquity, when the Homoian heresy was eventually almost exclusively associated with Germanic-speakers. This article will explore the genesis of this correlation, and compare it to other historical religious-linguistic divisions.X-ray radiative transfer in protoplanetary disks : The role of dust and X-ray background fieldsRab, Ch.Güdel, M.Woitke, P.Kamp, I.Thi, W-FMin, M.Aresu, G.Meijerink, R.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127162018-02-18T00:33:20Z2018-01-18T00:00:00ZContext. The X-ray luminosities of T Tauri stars are about two to four orders of magnitude higher than the luminosity of the contemporary Sun. As these stars are born in clusters, their disks are not only irradiated by their parent star but also by an X-ray background field produced by the cluster members. Aims. We aim to quantify the impact of X-ray background fields produced by young embedded clusters on the chemical structure of disks. Further, we want to investigate the importance of the dust for X-ray radiative transfer in disks. Methods. We present a new X-ray radiative transfer module for the radiation thermo-chemical disk code PRODIMO (PROtoplanetary DIsk MOdel), which includes X-ray scattering and absorption by both the gas and dust component. The X-ray dust opacities can be calculated for various dust compositions and dust-size distributions. For the X-ray radiative transfer we consider irradiation by the star and by X-ray background fields. To study the impact of X-rays on the chemical structure of disks we use the well established disk ionization tracers N2H+ and HCO+. Results. For evolved dust populations (e.g. grain growth), X-ray opacities are mostly dominated by the gas; only for photon energies E greater than or similar to 5—10 keV do dust opacities become relevant. Consequently the local disk X-ray radiation field is only affected in dense regions close to the disk midplane. X-ray background fields can dominate the local X-ray disk ionization rate for disk radii r greater than or similar to 20 au. However, the N2H+ and HCO+ column densities are only significantly affected in cases of low cosmic-ray ionization rates (less than or similar to 10-19 s-1), or if the background flux is at least a factor of ten higher than the flux level of ≈ 10-5 erg cm-2 s-1 expected for clusters typical for the solar vicinity. Conclusions. Observable signatures of X-ray background fields in low-mass star-formation regions, like Taurus, are only expected for cluster members experiencing a strong X-ray background field (e.g. due to their location within the cluster). For the majority of the cluster members, the X-ray background field has relatively little impact on the disk chemical structure.
The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Union Seventh Framework Programme FP7-2011 under grant agreement no 284405. CHR and MG acknowledge funding by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF): project number P24790. The computational results presented have been achieved using the Vienna Scientific Cluster (VSC). This publication was supported by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF).
2018-01-18T00:00:00ZRab, Ch.Güdel, M.Woitke, P.Kamp, I.Thi, W-FMin, M.Aresu, G.Meijerink, R.Context. The X-ray luminosities of T Tauri stars are about two to four orders of magnitude higher than the luminosity of the contemporary Sun. As these stars are born in clusters, their disks are not only irradiated by their parent star but also by an X-ray background field produced by the cluster members. Aims. We aim to quantify the impact of X-ray background fields produced by young embedded clusters on the chemical structure of disks. Further, we want to investigate the importance of the dust for X-ray radiative transfer in disks. Methods. We present a new X-ray radiative transfer module for the radiation thermo-chemical disk code PRODIMO (PROtoplanetary DIsk MOdel), which includes X-ray scattering and absorption by both the gas and dust component. The X-ray dust opacities can be calculated for various dust compositions and dust-size distributions. For the X-ray radiative transfer we consider irradiation by the star and by X-ray background fields. To study the impact of X-rays on the chemical structure of disks we use the well established disk ionization tracers N2H+ and HCO+. Results. For evolved dust populations (e.g. grain growth), X-ray opacities are mostly dominated by the gas; only for photon energies E greater than or similar to 5—10 keV do dust opacities become relevant. Consequently the local disk X-ray radiation field is only affected in dense regions close to the disk midplane. X-ray background fields can dominate the local X-ray disk ionization rate for disk radii r greater than or similar to 20 au. However, the N2H+ and HCO+ column densities are only significantly affected in cases of low cosmic-ray ionization rates (less than or similar to 10-19 s-1), or if the background flux is at least a factor of ten higher than the flux level of ≈ 10-5 erg cm-2 s-1 expected for clusters typical for the solar vicinity. Conclusions. Observable signatures of X-ray background fields in low-mass star-formation regions, like Taurus, are only expected for cluster members experiencing a strong X-ray background field (e.g. due to their location within the cluster). For the majority of the cluster members, the X-ray background field has relatively little impact on the disk chemical structure.The Skeireins : a neglected textWolfe, Brendan Nathanialhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127152018-02-14T00:16:23Z2013-01-01T00:00:00ZFragmentary, palimpsest segments survive of a commentary on the Gospel of John written in the 4th or 5th centuries in the Gothic language by an unknown author, dubbed the Skeireins (Gothic ‘explanation’) by its first modern editor. Critical discussion has focused upon whether the text was an original Gothic composition, or a translation from Greek, perhaps from the writings of Theodore of Heracleia. This paper will briefly review this question, but in the main will examine the theology of the work itself, and what the terms and preoccupations of the Gothic text reveal about the situation in which it was written.
ISBN: 9789042929975. Papers presented at the Sixteenth International Conference on Patristic Studies held in Oxford 2011
2013-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, Brendan NathanialFragmentary, palimpsest segments survive of a commentary on the Gospel of John written in the 4th or 5th centuries in the Gothic language by an unknown author, dubbed the Skeireins (Gothic ‘explanation’) by its first modern editor. Critical discussion has focused upon whether the text was an original Gothic composition, or a translation from Greek, perhaps from the writings of Theodore of Heracleia. This paper will briefly review this question, but in the main will examine the theology of the work itself, and what the terms and preoccupations of the Gothic text reveal about the situation in which it was written.The Rudston mosaicsCousins, Eleri Hopkinshttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127142018-03-11T00:33:55Z2017-11-01T00:00:00Z2017-11-01T00:00:00ZCousins, Eleri HopkinsThe Gothic palimpsest of BolognaWolfe, Brendan Nathanialhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127132018-02-18T00:33:19Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZIn 2013, a newly discovered addition to the very limited corpus of the Gothic language was published. This fragmentary manuscript, the scriptio inferior of a palimpsest, contains fragments of theological writing with extensive citation of the Old and New Testaments, likely one or two sermons. The editio princeps, a subsequent reading, and further analysis have concentrated on the identification of the cited passages, comparison to the Gothic Bible as we have it, the significance for textual criticism, and the presence of new linguistic forms. This paper evaluates what can be said about the theological content of the document(s), with special reference to the ‘Homoianism’ of the Goths.
ISBN: 9789042935884
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, Brendan NathanialIn 2013, a newly discovered addition to the very limited corpus of the Gothic language was published. This fragmentary manuscript, the scriptio inferior of a palimpsest, contains fragments of theological writing with extensive citation of the Old and New Testaments, likely one or two sermons. The editio princeps, a subsequent reading, and further analysis have concentrated on the identification of the cited passages, comparison to the Gothic Bible as we have it, the significance for textual criticism, and the presence of new linguistic forms. This paper evaluates what can be said about the theological content of the document(s), with special reference to the ‘Homoianism’ of the Goths.Hierarchical Bayesian calibration of tidal orbit decay rates among hot JupitersCollier Cameron, AndrewJardine, Moirahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127122018-02-21T10:30:15Z2018-02-05T00:00:00ZTransiting hot Jupiters occupy a wedge-shaped region in the mass ratio-orbital separation diagram. Its upper boundary is eroded by tidal spiral-in of massive, close-in planets and is sensitive to the stellar tidal dissipation parameter Q′s . We develop a simple generative model of the orbital separation distribution of the known population of transiting hot Jupiters, subject to tidal orbital decay, XUV-driven evaporation and observational selection bias. From the joint likelihood of the observed orbital separations of hot Jupiters discovered in ground-based wide-field transit surveys, measured with respect to the hyperparameters of the underlying population model, we recover narrow posterior probability distributions for Q′s in two different tidal forcing frequency regimes. We validate the method using mock samples of transiting planets with known tidal parameters. We find that Q′s and its temperature dependence are retrieved reliably over five orders of magnitude in Q′s. A large sample of hot Jupiters from small-aperture ground-based surveys yields log10Q′s = (8.26±0.14) for 223 systems in the equilibrium-tide regime. We detect no significant dependence of Q′s on stellar effective temperature. A further 19 systems in the dynamical-tide regime yield log10Q′s = 7.3±0.4, indicating stronger coupling. Detection probabilities for transiting planets at a given orbital separation scale inversely with the increase in their tidal migration rates since birth. The resulting bias towards younger systems explains why the surface gravities of hot Jupiters correlate with their host stars’ chromospheric emission fluxes. We predict departures from a linear transit-timing ephemeris of less than 4 seconds for WASP-18 over a 20-year baseline.
ACC and MMJ acknowledge support from STFC Consolidated Grant ST/M001296/1.
2018-02-05T00:00:00ZCollier Cameron, AndrewJardine, MoiraTransiting hot Jupiters occupy a wedge-shaped region in the mass ratio-orbital separation diagram. Its upper boundary is eroded by tidal spiral-in of massive, close-in planets and is sensitive to the stellar tidal dissipation parameter Q′s . We develop a simple generative model of the orbital separation distribution of the known population of transiting hot Jupiters, subject to tidal orbital decay, XUV-driven evaporation and observational selection bias. From the joint likelihood of the observed orbital separations of hot Jupiters discovered in ground-based wide-field transit surveys, measured with respect to the hyperparameters of the underlying population model, we recover narrow posterior probability distributions for Q′s in two different tidal forcing frequency regimes. We validate the method using mock samples of transiting planets with known tidal parameters. We find that Q′s and its temperature dependence are retrieved reliably over five orders of magnitude in Q′s. A large sample of hot Jupiters from small-aperture ground-based surveys yields log10Q′s = (8.26±0.14) for 223 systems in the equilibrium-tide regime. We detect no significant dependence of Q′s on stellar effective temperature. A further 19 systems in the dynamical-tide regime yield log10Q′s = 7.3±0.4, indicating stronger coupling. Detection probabilities for transiting planets at a given orbital separation scale inversely with the increase in their tidal migration rates since birth. The resulting bias towards younger systems explains why the surface gravities of hot Jupiters correlate with their host stars’ chromospheric emission fluxes. We predict departures from a linear transit-timing ephemeris of less than 4 seconds for WASP-18 over a 20-year baseline.SDSS-IV MaNGA : the spatial distribution of star formation and its dependence on mass, structure and environmentSpindler, AshleyWake, DavidBelfiore, FrancescoBershady, MatthewBundy, KevinDrory, NivMasters, KarenThomas, DanielWestfall, KyleWild, Viviennehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127112018-03-16T10:30:11Z2018-05-01T00:00:00ZWe study the spatially resolved star formation of 1494 galaxies in the SDSSIV-MaNGA Survey. SFRs are calculated using a two-step process, using Hα in star forming regions and Dn4000 in regions identified as AGN/LI(N)ER or lineless. The roles of secular and environmental quenching processes are investigated by studying the dependence of the radial profiles of specific star formation rate on stellar mass, galaxy structure and environment. We report on the existence of ‘Centrally Suppressed’ galaxies, which have suppressed SSFR in their cores compared to their disks. The profiles of centrally suppressed and unsuppressed galaxies are distibuted in a bimodal way. Galaxies with high stellar mass and core velocity dispersion are found to be much more likely to be centrally suppressed than low mass galaxies, and we show that this is related to morphology and the presence of AGN/LI(N)ER like emission. Centrally suppressed galaxies also display lower star formation at all radii compared to unsuppressed galaxies. The profiles of central and satellite galaxies are also compared, and we find that satellite galaxies experience lower specific star formation rates at all radii than central galaxies. This uniform suppression could be a signal of the stripping of hot halo gas in the process known as strangulation. We find that satellites are not more likely to be suppressed in their cores than centrals, indicating that the core suppression is an entirely internal process. We find no correlation between the local environment density and the profiles of star formation rate surface density.
Funding: M.B. acknowledges funding from NSF/AST-1517006. VW acknowledges support of the European Research Council from the starting grant SEDmorph (P.I. V. Wild).
2018-05-01T00:00:00ZSpindler, AshleyWake, DavidBelfiore, FrancescoBershady, MatthewBundy, KevinDrory, NivMasters, KarenThomas, DanielWestfall, KyleWild, VivienneWe study the spatially resolved star formation of 1494 galaxies in the SDSSIV-MaNGA Survey. SFRs are calculated using a two-step process, using Hα in star forming regions and Dn4000 in regions identified as AGN/LI(N)ER or lineless. The roles of secular and environmental quenching processes are investigated by studying the dependence of the radial profiles of specific star formation rate on stellar mass, galaxy structure and environment. We report on the existence of ‘Centrally Suppressed’ galaxies, which have suppressed SSFR in their cores compared to their disks. The profiles of centrally suppressed and unsuppressed galaxies are distibuted in a bimodal way. Galaxies with high stellar mass and core velocity dispersion are found to be much more likely to be centrally suppressed than low mass galaxies, and we show that this is related to morphology and the presence of AGN/LI(N)ER like emission. Centrally suppressed galaxies also display lower star formation at all radii compared to unsuppressed galaxies. The profiles of central and satellite galaxies are also compared, and we find that satellite galaxies experience lower specific star formation rates at all radii than central galaxies. This uniform suppression could be a signal of the stripping of hot halo gas in the process known as strangulation. We find that satellites are not more likely to be suppressed in their cores than centrals, indicating that the core suppression is an entirely internal process. We find no correlation between the local environment density and the profiles of star formation rate surface density.Inhibitors of Trypanosoma cruzi Sir2 related protein 1 as potential drugs against Chagas diseaseGaspar, LuísCoron, Ross P.Kongthoo Lin, PaulCosta, David M.Perez-Cabezas, BegoñaTavares, JoanaRoura-Ferrer, MeritxellRamos, IsbaalRonin, CélineMajor, Louise L.Ciesielski, FabricePemberton, Iain K.MacDougall, JaneCiapetti, PaolaSmith, Terry K.Cordeiro-da-Silva, Anabelahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127102018-02-18T01:39:07Z2018-01-22T00:00:00ZChagas disease remains one of the most neglected diseases in the world despite being the most important parasitic disease in Latin America. The characteristic chronic manifestation of chagasic cardiomyopathy is the region’s leading cause of heart-related illness, causing significant mortality and morbidity. Due to the limited available therapeutic options, new drugs are urgently needed to control the disease. Sirtuins, also called Silent information regulator 2 (Sir2) proteins have long been suggested as interesting targets to treat different diseases, including parasitic infections. Recent studies on Trypanosoma cruzi sirtuins have hinted at the possibility to exploit these enzymes as a possible drug targets. In the present work, the T. cruzi Sir2 related protein 1 (TcSir2rp1) is genetically validated as a drug target and biochemically characterized for its NAD+-dependent deacetylase activity and its inhibition by the classic sirtuin inhibitor nicotinamide, as well as by bisnaphthalimidopropyl (BNIP) derivatives, a class of parasite sirtuin inhibitors. BNIPs ability to inhibit TcSir2rp1, and anti-parasitic activity against T. cruzi amastigotes in vitro were investigated. The compound BNIP Spermidine (BNIPSpd) (9) , was found to be the most potent inhibitor of TcSir2rp1. Moreover, this compound showed altered trypanocidal activity against TcSir2rp1 overexpressing epimastigotes and anti-parasitic activity similar to the reference drug benznidazole against the medically important amastigotes, while having the highest selectivity index amongst the compounds tested. Unfortunately, BNIPSpd failed to treat a mouse model of Chagas disease, possibly due to its pharmacokinetic profile. Medicinal chemistry modifications of the compound, as well as alternative formulations may improve activity and pharmacokinetics in the future. Additionally, an initial TcSIR2rp1 model in complex with p53 peptide substrate was obtained from low resolution X-ray data (3.5 Å) to gain insight into the potential specificity of the interaction with the BNIP compounds. In conclusion, the search for TcSir2rp1 specific inhibitors may represent a valuable strategy for drug discovery against T. cruzi.
The research leading to these results has received funding from: the European Community’s Seventh Framework Programme under grant agreement No.602773 (Project KINDReD) and Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT)/ Ministério da Educação e Ciência (MEC) cofunded by FEDER, partnership agreement PT2020, through the Research Unit No.4293. LG was supported by the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia through grant SFRH/BD /81604/2011. DMC was supported by KINDReD-PR 301404-B D III scholarship. JT is an Investigator FCT funded by National funds through FCT and co-funded through European Social Fund within the Human Potential Operating Programme . The authors thank the EPSRC UK National Mass Spectrometry Facility at Swansea University for high resolution mass spectral analysis on all the new compounds.
2018-01-22T00:00:00ZGaspar, LuísCoron, Ross P.Kongthoo Lin, PaulCosta, David M.Perez-Cabezas, BegoñaTavares, JoanaRoura-Ferrer, MeritxellRamos, IsbaalRonin, CélineMajor, Louise L.Ciesielski, FabricePemberton, Iain K.MacDougall, JaneCiapetti, PaolaSmith, Terry K.Cordeiro-da-Silva, AnabelaChagas disease remains one of the most neglected diseases in the world despite being the most important parasitic disease in Latin America. The characteristic chronic manifestation of chagasic cardiomyopathy is the region’s leading cause of heart-related illness, causing significant mortality and morbidity. Due to the limited available therapeutic options, new drugs are urgently needed to control the disease. Sirtuins, also called Silent information regulator 2 (Sir2) proteins have long been suggested as interesting targets to treat different diseases, including parasitic infections. Recent studies on Trypanosoma cruzi sirtuins have hinted at the possibility to exploit these enzymes as a possible drug targets. In the present work, the T. cruzi Sir2 related protein 1 (TcSir2rp1) is genetically validated as a drug target and biochemically characterized for its NAD+-dependent deacetylase activity and its inhibition by the classic sirtuin inhibitor nicotinamide, as well as by bisnaphthalimidopropyl (BNIP) derivatives, a class of parasite sirtuin inhibitors. BNIPs ability to inhibit TcSir2rp1, and anti-parasitic activity against T. cruzi amastigotes in vitro were investigated. The compound BNIP Spermidine (BNIPSpd) (9) , was found to be the most potent inhibitor of TcSir2rp1. Moreover, this compound showed altered trypanocidal activity against TcSir2rp1 overexpressing epimastigotes and anti-parasitic activity similar to the reference drug benznidazole against the medically important amastigotes, while having the highest selectivity index amongst the compounds tested. Unfortunately, BNIPSpd failed to treat a mouse model of Chagas disease, possibly due to its pharmacokinetic profile. Medicinal chemistry modifications of the compound, as well as alternative formulations may improve activity and pharmacokinetics in the future. Additionally, an initial TcSIR2rp1 model in complex with p53 peptide substrate was obtained from low resolution X-ray data (3.5 Å) to gain insight into the potential specificity of the interaction with the BNIP compounds. In conclusion, the search for TcSir2rp1 specific inhibitors may represent a valuable strategy for drug discovery against T. cruzi.As thick as thieves : exploring Thomas Hobbes's critique of ancient friendship and its contemporary relevanceSlomp, Gabriellahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127092018-02-14T00:16:22Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZRecent decades have witnessed a revival of interest in ancient friendship both as a normative and as an explanatory concept. The literature concurs in holding Hobbes responsible for the marginalisation of friendship in political science and suggests that Hobbes devalued friendship because of his understanding of man. The paper argues that while Hobbes's account and appraisal of friendship hinge on his assumption that man is self-interested, his critique of normative friendship does not rest on that notion. Hobbes's challenge is that, deprived of its classical foundation in a 'truth' (the 'good life'), modern friendship, whether self-interested or selfless, cannot be assumed to be a civic virtue, nor an index of the health of a political association, nor a facilitator of domestic or global peace. Hobbes's critique is especially relevant for writers who maintain that a resurgence of friendship can nurture concord and foster reconciliation in contemporary liberal democracies.
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZSlomp, GabriellaRecent decades have witnessed a revival of interest in ancient friendship both as a normative and as an explanatory concept. The literature concurs in holding Hobbes responsible for the marginalisation of friendship in political science and suggests that Hobbes devalued friendship because of his understanding of man. The paper argues that while Hobbes's account and appraisal of friendship hinge on his assumption that man is self-interested, his critique of normative friendship does not rest on that notion. Hobbes's challenge is that, deprived of its classical foundation in a 'truth' (the 'good life'), modern friendship, whether self-interested or selfless, cannot be assumed to be a civic virtue, nor an index of the health of a political association, nor a facilitator of domestic or global peace. Hobbes's critique is especially relevant for writers who maintain that a resurgence of friendship can nurture concord and foster reconciliation in contemporary liberal democracies.The enhancement of rapidly quenched galaxies in distant clusters at 0.5 < z < 1.0Socolovsky, MiguelAlmaini, OmarHatch, Nina A.Wild, VivienneMaltby, David T.Hartley, William G.Simpson, Chrishttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127082018-03-12T15:30:07Z2018-05-01T00:00:00ZWe investigate the relationship between environment and galaxy evolution in the redshift range 0.5 < z < 1.0. Galaxy overdensities are selected using a Friends-of-Friends algorithm, applied to deep photometric data in the Ultra-Deep Survey (UDS) field. A study of the resulting stellar mass functions reveals clear differences between cluster and field environments, with a strong excess of low-mass rapidly quenched galaxies in cluster environments compared to the field. Cluster environments also show a corresponding deficit of young, low-mass star-forming galaxies, which show a sharp radial decline towards cluster centres. By comparing mass functions and radial distributions, we conclude that young star-forming galaxies are rapidly quenched as they enter overdense environments, becoming post-starburst galaxies before joining the red sequence. Our results also point to the existence of two environmental quenching pathways operating in galaxy clusters, operating on different timescales. Fast quenching acts on galaxies with high specific star-formation rates, operating on timescales shorter than the cluster dynamical time ( < 1 Gyr). In contrast, slow quenching affects galaxies with moderate specific star-formation rates, regardlessof their stellar mass, and acts on longer timescales (≳ 1 Gyr). Of the cluster galaxies in the stellar mass range 9.0 < log(M/M⊙) < 10.5 quenched during this epoch, we find that 73% were transformed through fast quenching, while the remaining 27% followed the slow quenching route.
Funding: MS acknowledges support from IAC and STFC. VW acknowledges support from the European Research Council Starting grant (SEDmorph, P.I. V. Wild).
2018-05-01T00:00:00ZSocolovsky, MiguelAlmaini, OmarHatch, Nina A.Wild, VivienneMaltby, David T.Hartley, William G.Simpson, ChrisWe investigate the relationship between environment and galaxy evolution in the redshift range 0.5 < z < 1.0. Galaxy overdensities are selected using a Friends-of-Friends algorithm, applied to deep photometric data in the Ultra-Deep Survey (UDS) field. A study of the resulting stellar mass functions reveals clear differences between cluster and field environments, with a strong excess of low-mass rapidly quenched galaxies in cluster environments compared to the field. Cluster environments also show a corresponding deficit of young, low-mass star-forming galaxies, which show a sharp radial decline towards cluster centres. By comparing mass functions and radial distributions, we conclude that young star-forming galaxies are rapidly quenched as they enter overdense environments, becoming post-starburst galaxies before joining the red sequence. Our results also point to the existence of two environmental quenching pathways operating in galaxy clusters, operating on different timescales. Fast quenching acts on galaxies with high specific star-formation rates, operating on timescales shorter than the cluster dynamical time ( < 1 Gyr). In contrast, slow quenching affects galaxies with moderate specific star-formation rates, regardlessof their stellar mass, and acts on longer timescales (≳ 1 Gyr). Of the cluster galaxies in the stellar mass range 9.0 < log(M/M⊙) < 10.5 quenched during this epoch, we find that 73% were transformed through fast quenching, while the remaining 27% followed the slow quenching route.The effect of aggregation on visibility in open waterRuxton, Graeme D.Johnsen, Sönkehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127072018-02-21T16:30:06Z2016-09-28T00:00:00ZAggregation is a common life-history trait in open-water taxa. Qualitative understanding of how aggregation by prey influences their encounter rates with predators is critical for understanding pelagic predator-prey interactions and trophic webs.We extend a recently developed theory on underwater visibility to predict the consequences of grouping in open-water species in terms of increased visual detection of groups by predators. Our model suggests that enhanced visibility will be relatively modest, with maximum detection distance typically only doubling for a 100-fold increase in the number of prey in a group. This result suggests that although larger groups are more easily detected, this cost to aggregation will in many cases be dominated by benefits, especially through risk dilution in situations where predators cannot consume all members of a discovered group. This, in turn, helps to explain the ubiquity of grouping across a great variety of open-water taxa.
2016-09-28T00:00:00ZRuxton, Graeme D.Johnsen, SönkeAggregation is a common life-history trait in open-water taxa. Qualitative understanding of how aggregation by prey influences their encounter rates with predators is critical for understanding pelagic predator-prey interactions and trophic webs.We extend a recently developed theory on underwater visibility to predict the consequences of grouping in open-water species in terms of increased visual detection of groups by predators. Our model suggests that enhanced visibility will be relatively modest, with maximum detection distance typically only doubling for a 100-fold increase in the number of prey in a group. This result suggests that although larger groups are more easily detected, this cost to aggregation will in many cases be dominated by benefits, especially through risk dilution in situations where predators cannot consume all members of a discovered group. This, in turn, helps to explain the ubiquity of grouping across a great variety of open-water taxa.Pointing all around you : selection performance of mouse and ray-cast pointing in full-coverage displaysPetford, JulianNacenta, MiguelGutwin, Carlhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127062018-02-18T00:33:47Z2018-04-21T00:00:00ZAs display environments become larger and more diverse - now often encompassing multiple walls and room surfaces - it is becoming more common that users must find and manipulate digital artifacts not directly in front of them. There is little understanding, however, about what techniques and devices are best for carrying out basic operations above, behind, or to the side of the user. We conducted an empirical study comparing two main techniques that are suitable for full-coverage display environments: mouse-based pointing, and ray-cast `laser' pointing. Participants completed search and pointing tasks on the walls and ceiling, and we measured completion time, path lengths and perceived effort. Our study showed a strong interaction between performance and target location: when the target position was not known a priori the mouse was fastest for targets on the front wall, but ray-casting was faster for targets behind the user. Our findings provide new empirical evidence that can help designers choose pointing techniques for full-coverage spaces.
Funding: SurfNet (NSERC, Canada), EPSRC (Small Equipment Grant).
2018-04-21T00:00:00ZPetford, JulianNacenta, MiguelGutwin, CarlAs display environments become larger and more diverse - now often encompassing multiple walls and room surfaces - it is becoming more common that users must find and manipulate digital artifacts not directly in front of them. There is little understanding, however, about what techniques and devices are best for carrying out basic operations above, behind, or to the side of the user. We conducted an empirical study comparing two main techniques that are suitable for full-coverage display environments: mouse-based pointing, and ray-cast `laser' pointing. Participants completed search and pointing tasks on the walls and ceiling, and we measured completion time, path lengths and perceived effort. Our study showed a strong interaction between performance and target location: when the target position was not known a priori the mouse was fastest for targets on the front wall, but ray-casting was faster for targets behind the user. Our findings provide new empirical evidence that can help designers choose pointing techniques for full-coverage spaces.An ultra-short period rocky super-Earth with a secondary eclipse and a Neptune-like companion around K2-141Malavolta, LucaMayo, Andrew W.Louden, TomRajpaul, Vinesh M.Bonomo, Aldo S.Buchhave, Lars A.Kreidberg, LauraKristiansen, Martti H.Lopez-Morales, MercedesMortier, AnneliesVanderburg, AndrewCoffinet, AdrienEhrenreich, DavidLovis, ChristopheBouchy, FrancoisCharbonneau, DavidCiardi, David R.Collier Cameron, AndrewCosentino, RosarioCrossfield, Ian J. M.Damasso, MarioDressing, Courtney D.Dumusque, XavierEverett, Mark E.Figueira, PedroFiorenzano, Aldo F. M.Gonzales, Erica J.Haywood, Raphaëlle D.Harutyunyan, AvetHirsch, LeaHowell, Steve B.Johnson, John AsherLatham, David W.Lopez, EricMayor, MichelMicela, GiusiMolinari, EmilioNascimbeni, ValerioPepe, FrancescoPhillips, David F.Piotto, GiampaoloRice, KenSasselov, DimitarSégransan, DamienSozzetti, AlessandroUdry, StéphaneWatson, Chrishttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127052018-02-18T00:33:17Z2018-02-09T00:00:00ZUltra-short period (USP) planets are a class of low mass planets with periods shorter than one day. Their origin is still unknown, with photo-evaporation of mini-Neptunes and in-situ formation being the most credited hypotheses. Formation scenarios differ radically in the predicted composition of USP planets, it is therefore extremely important to increase the still limited sample of USP planets with precise and accurate mass and density measurements. We report here the characterization of an USP planet with a period of 0.28 days around K2-141 (EPIC 246393474), and the validation of an outer planet with a period of 7.7 days in a grazing transit configuration. We derived the radii of the planets from the K2 light curve and used high-precision radial velocities gathered with the HARPS-N spectrograph for mass measurements. For K2-141b we thus inferred a radius of 1.51 ± 0.05 R⊕ and a mass of 5.08 ± 0.41 M⊕, consistent with a rocky composition and lack of a thick atmosphere. K2-141c is likely a Neptune-like planet, although due to the grazing transits and the non-detection in the RV dataset, we were not able to put a strong constraint on its density. We also report the detection of secondary eclipses and phase curve variations for K2-141b. The phase variation can be modeled either by a planet with a geometric albedo of 0.30 ± 0.06 in the Kepler bandpass, or by thermal emission from the surface of the planet at ∼3000K. Only follow-up observations at longer wavelengths will allow us to distinguish between these two scenarios.
2018-02-09T00:00:00ZMalavolta, LucaMayo, Andrew W.Louden, TomRajpaul, Vinesh M.Bonomo, Aldo S.Buchhave, Lars A.Kreidberg, LauraKristiansen, Martti H.Lopez-Morales, MercedesMortier, AnneliesVanderburg, AndrewCoffinet, AdrienEhrenreich, DavidLovis, ChristopheBouchy, FrancoisCharbonneau, DavidCiardi, David R.Collier Cameron, AndrewCosentino, RosarioCrossfield, Ian J. M.Damasso, MarioDressing, Courtney D.Dumusque, XavierEverett, Mark E.Figueira, PedroFiorenzano, Aldo F. M.Gonzales, Erica J.Haywood, Raphaëlle D.Harutyunyan, AvetHirsch, LeaHowell, Steve B.Johnson, John AsherLatham, David W.Lopez, EricMayor, MichelMicela, GiusiMolinari, EmilioNascimbeni, ValerioPepe, FrancescoPhillips, David F.Piotto, GiampaoloRice, KenSasselov, DimitarSégransan, DamienSozzetti, AlessandroUdry, StéphaneWatson, ChrisUltra-short period (USP) planets are a class of low mass planets with periods shorter than one day. Their origin is still unknown, with photo-evaporation of mini-Neptunes and in-situ formation being the most credited hypotheses. Formation scenarios differ radically in the predicted composition of USP planets, it is therefore extremely important to increase the still limited sample of USP planets with precise and accurate mass and density measurements. We report here the characterization of an USP planet with a period of 0.28 days around K2-141 (EPIC 246393474), and the validation of an outer planet with a period of 7.7 days in a grazing transit configuration. We derived the radii of the planets from the K2 light curve and used high-precision radial velocities gathered with the HARPS-N spectrograph for mass measurements. For K2-141b we thus inferred a radius of 1.51 ± 0.05 R⊕ and a mass of 5.08 ± 0.41 M⊕, consistent with a rocky composition and lack of a thick atmosphere. K2-141c is likely a Neptune-like planet, although due to the grazing transits and the non-detection in the RV dataset, we were not able to put a strong constraint on its density. We also report the detection of secondary eclipses and phase curve variations for K2-141b. The phase variation can be modeled either by a planet with a geometric albedo of 0.30 ± 0.06 in the Kepler bandpass, or by thermal emission from the surface of the planet at ∼3000K. Only follow-up observations at longer wavelengths will allow us to distinguish between these two scenarios.War in peace : the American Legion and the continuing service of filmRice, Tomhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127042018-02-13T00:16:10Z2018-01-01T00:00:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZRice, TomKnowledge for nothingGreenough, Patrick Michaelhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127032018-02-13T00:16:10Z2018-01-01T00:00:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZGreenough, Patrick MichaelConsidering agency and data granularity in the design of visualization toolsMendez, Gonzalo GabrielNacenta, MiguelHinrichs, Utahttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/127022018-02-18T00:33:47Z2018-04-21T00:00:00ZPrevious research has identified trade-offs when it comes to designing visualization tools. While constructive “bottom-up” tools promote a hands-on, user-driven design process that enables a deep understanding and control of the visual mapping, automated tools are more efficient and allow people to rapidly explore complex alternative designs, often at the cost of transparency. We investigate how to design visualization tools that support a user-driven, transparent design process while enabling efficiency and automation, through a series of design workshops that looked at how both visualization experts and novices approach this problem. Participants produced a variety of solutions that range from example-based approaches expanding constructive visualization to solutions in which the visualization tool infers solutions on behalf of the designer, e.g., based on data attributes. On a higher level, these findings highlight agency and granularity as dimensions that can guide the design of visualization tools in this space.
The Ecuadorian Government supports Gonzalo Gabriel Méndez through a SENESCYT scholarship.
2018-04-21T00:00:00ZMendez, Gonzalo GabrielNacenta, MiguelHinrichs, UtaPrevious research has identified trade-offs when it comes to designing visualization tools. While constructive “bottom-up” tools promote a hands-on, user-driven design process that enables a deep understanding and control of the visual mapping, automated tools are more efficient and allow people to rapidly explore complex alternative designs, often at the cost of transparency. We investigate how to design visualization tools that support a user-driven, transparent design process while enabling efficiency and automation, through a series of design workshops that looked at how both visualization experts and novices approach this problem. Participants produced a variety of solutions that range from example-based approaches expanding constructive visualization to solutions in which the visualization tool infers solutions on behalf of the designer, e.g., based on data attributes. On a higher level, these findings highlight agency and granularity as dimensions that can guide the design of visualization tools in this space.The last forests on Antarctica : reconstructing flora and temperature from the Neogene Sirius Group, Transantarctic MountainsRees-Owen, Rhian L.Gill, Fiona L.Newton, Robert J.Ivanovic, Ruza F.Francis, Jane E.Riding, James B.Vane, Christopher H.Lopes dos Santos, Raquel A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127012018-02-13T00:16:14Z2018-04-01T00:00:00ZFossil-bearing deposits in the Transantarctic Mountains, Antarctica indicate that, despite the cold nature of the continent’s climate, a tundra ecosystem grew during periods of ice sheet retreat in the mid to late Neogene (17–2.5 Ma), 480 km from the South Pole. To date, palaeotemperature reconstruction has been based only on biological ranges, thereby calling for a geochemical approach to understanding continental climate and environment. There is contradictory evidence in the fossil record as to whether this flora was mixed angiosperm-conifer vegetation, or whether by this point conifers had disappeared from the continent. In order to address these questions, we have analysed, for the first time in sediments of this age, plant and bacterial biomarkers in terrestrial sediments from the Transantarctic Mountains to reconstruct past temperature and vegetation during a period of East Antarctic Ice Sheet retreat. From tetraether lipids (MBT’/CBT palaeothermometer), we conclude that the mean continental summer temperature was ca. 5 °C, in agreement with previous reconstructions. This was warm enough to have allowed woody vegetation to survive and reproduce even during the austral winter. Biomarkers from vascular plants indicate a low diversity and spatially variable flora consisting of higher plants, moss and algal mats growing in microenvironments in a glacial outwash system. Abietane-type compounds were abundant in some samples, indicating that conifers, most likely Podocarpaceae, grew on the Antarctic continent well into the Neogene. This is supported by the palynological record, but not the macrofossil record for the continent, and has implications for the evolution of vegetation on Antarctica.
R.L.R.O. thanks the Natural Environmental Research Council (NERC) for supporting her PhD studentship (NE/K500847/1) and BGS for CASE support. R.I. was supported by a NERC Independent Fellowship (NE/K008536/1). F.L..G was supported by a Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship.
2018-04-01T00:00:00ZRees-Owen, Rhian L.Gill, Fiona L.Newton, Robert J.Ivanovic, Ruza F.Francis, Jane E.Riding, James B.Vane, Christopher H.Lopes dos Santos, Raquel A.Fossil-bearing deposits in the Transantarctic Mountains, Antarctica indicate that, despite the cold nature of the continent’s climate, a tundra ecosystem grew during periods of ice sheet retreat in the mid to late Neogene (17–2.5 Ma), 480 km from the South Pole. To date, palaeotemperature reconstruction has been based only on biological ranges, thereby calling for a geochemical approach to understanding continental climate and environment. There is contradictory evidence in the fossil record as to whether this flora was mixed angiosperm-conifer vegetation, or whether by this point conifers had disappeared from the continent. In order to address these questions, we have analysed, for the first time in sediments of this age, plant and bacterial biomarkers in terrestrial sediments from the Transantarctic Mountains to reconstruct past temperature and vegetation during a period of East Antarctic Ice Sheet retreat. From tetraether lipids (MBT’/CBT palaeothermometer), we conclude that the mean continental summer temperature was ca. 5 °C, in agreement with previous reconstructions. This was warm enough to have allowed woody vegetation to survive and reproduce even during the austral winter. Biomarkers from vascular plants indicate a low diversity and spatially variable flora consisting of higher plants, moss and algal mats growing in microenvironments in a glacial outwash system. Abietane-type compounds were abundant in some samples, indicating that conifers, most likely Podocarpaceae, grew on the Antarctic continent well into the Neogene. This is supported by the palynological record, but not the macrofossil record for the continent, and has implications for the evolution of vegetation on Antarctica.Do masculine men smell better? An association between skin color masculinity and female preferences for body odorCarrito, Mariana L.Santos, Isabel M.Alho, LauraFerreira, JacquelineSoares, Sandra C.Bem-Haja, PedroSilva, Carlos F.Perrett, David I.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/127002018-02-13T00:16:18Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZA recent study claimed face skin color as a sexually dimorphic variable that influences attractiveness preferences in mate choice. Thereby, skin color may assume the role of a mate quality signal influencing attractiveness preferences. As body odor is linked to attractiveness, this study aimed to explore whether the odors of men with more masculine facial skin color would be evaluated more positively than odors from less masculine men. Female raters were presented with body odors of 18 men and were asked to rate them in various characteristics. Multilevel modelling revealed that the odors of the donors with more masculine color were rated not only as more attractive, more pleasant, and sexier, but also healthier. This indicates that odor associated with men with more masculine skin color is attractive, just as other sexually dimorphic traits. Furthermore, we found a negative relation between skin color masculinity and perceived odor maleness. Regarding this last finding, a new discussion is introduced with respect to the influence of cognitive stereotypes in odor judgments. Altogether, the study supports the possibility that chemosensory signals may be communicating signs of mate quality associated with masculinity.
This work was supported by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia and Programa Operacional de Potencial Humano/Fundo Social Europeu (SFRH/BD/77592/2011 to M.L.C.).
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZCarrito, Mariana L.Santos, Isabel M.Alho, LauraFerreira, JacquelineSoares, Sandra C.Bem-Haja, PedroSilva, Carlos F.Perrett, David I.A recent study claimed face skin color as a sexually dimorphic variable that influences attractiveness preferences in mate choice. Thereby, skin color may assume the role of a mate quality signal influencing attractiveness preferences. As body odor is linked to attractiveness, this study aimed to explore whether the odors of men with more masculine facial skin color would be evaluated more positively than odors from less masculine men. Female raters were presented with body odors of 18 men and were asked to rate them in various characteristics. Multilevel modelling revealed that the odors of the donors with more masculine color were rated not only as more attractive, more pleasant, and sexier, but also healthier. This indicates that odor associated with men with more masculine skin color is attractive, just as other sexually dimorphic traits. Furthermore, we found a negative relation between skin color masculinity and perceived odor maleness. Regarding this last finding, a new discussion is introduced with respect to the influence of cognitive stereotypes in odor judgments. Altogether, the study supports the possibility that chemosensory signals may be communicating signs of mate quality associated with masculinity.Na2Fe(C2O4)F2 : a new iron-based polyoxyanion cathode for Li/Na ion batteriesYao, WenjiaoSougrati, Moulay-TaharHoang, KhangHui, JianingLightfoot, PhilipArmstrong, A. Roberthttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126992018-03-04T01:40:47Z2017-03-14T00:00:00ZA new mixed anion compound, Na2Fe(C2O4)F2 has been prepared by hydrothermal synthesis. The crystal structure exhibits infinite chains of corner-linked FeII-centred octahedra, with coordination composed of both oxalate and fluoride ligands. This compound exhibits promising reversible lithium and sodium insertion. On extended cycling, Na2Fe(C2O4)F2 is capable of reversibly inserting 0.67 Li+ or 0.56 Na+ per formula unit up to 50 cycles at the average discharge voltages of 3.3 V and 3.0 V, respectively. This represents arguably the best performance as a prospective cathode material so far observed amongst oxalates, and is comparable to many known iron phosphate-based cathode materials.
W.Y. thanks the Royal Society for the award of a Newton International Fellowship (140881). Work at North Dakota State University (NDSU) was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Grant No. DE-SC0001717 and by NDSU's Center for Computationally Assisted Science and Technology.
2017-03-14T00:00:00ZYao, WenjiaoSougrati, Moulay-TaharHoang, KhangHui, JianingLightfoot, PhilipArmstrong, A. RobertA new mixed anion compound, Na2Fe(C2O4)F2 has been prepared by hydrothermal synthesis. The crystal structure exhibits infinite chains of corner-linked FeII-centred octahedra, with coordination composed of both oxalate and fluoride ligands. This compound exhibits promising reversible lithium and sodium insertion. On extended cycling, Na2Fe(C2O4)F2 is capable of reversibly inserting 0.67 Li+ or 0.56 Na+ per formula unit up to 50 cycles at the average discharge voltages of 3.3 V and 3.0 V, respectively. This represents arguably the best performance as a prospective cathode material so far observed amongst oxalates, and is comparable to many known iron phosphate-based cathode materials.Employment insecurity and mental health during the economic recession : an analysis of the young adult labour force in ItalyFiori, FrancescaRinesi, FrancescaSpizzichino, DanieleGiorgio, Ginevra Dihttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126982018-02-11T00:16:00Z2016-03-01T00:00:00ZBackground and objective. A growing body of scientific literature highlights the negative consequences of employment insecurity on several life domains. This study focuses on the young adult labour force in Italy, investigating the relationship between employment insecurity and mental health and whether this has changed after years of economic downturn. It enhances understanding by addressing differences in mental health according to several employment characteristics; and by exploring the role of respondents’ economic situation and educational level. Data and Methods. Data from a large-scale, nationally representative health survey are used to estimate the relationship between employment insecurity and the Mental Health Inventory (MHI), by means of multiple linear regressions. Results and Conclusions. The study demonstrates that employment insecurity is associated with poorer mental health. Moreover, neither temporary workers nor unemployed individuals are a homogeneous group. Previous job experience is important in differentiating the mental health risks of unemployed individuals; and the effects on mental health vary according to occupational status and to the amount of time spent in a condition of insecurity. Further, the experience of financial difficulties partly explains the relationship between employment insecurity and mental health; and different mental health outcomes depend on respondents’ educational level. Lastly, the risks of reporting poorer mental health were higher in 2013 than in 2005.
2016-03-01T00:00:00ZFiori, FrancescaRinesi, FrancescaSpizzichino, DanieleGiorgio, Ginevra DiBackground and objective. A growing body of scientific literature highlights the negative consequences of employment insecurity on several life domains. This study focuses on the young adult labour force in Italy, investigating the relationship between employment insecurity and mental health and whether this has changed after years of economic downturn. It enhances understanding by addressing differences in mental health according to several employment characteristics; and by exploring the role of respondents’ economic situation and educational level. Data and Methods. Data from a large-scale, nationally representative health survey are used to estimate the relationship between employment insecurity and the Mental Health Inventory (MHI), by means of multiple linear regressions. Results and Conclusions. The study demonstrates that employment insecurity is associated with poorer mental health. Moreover, neither temporary workers nor unemployed individuals are a homogeneous group. Previous job experience is important in differentiating the mental health risks of unemployed individuals; and the effects on mental health vary according to occupational status and to the amount of time spent in a condition of insecurity. Further, the experience of financial difficulties partly explains the relationship between employment insecurity and mental health; and different mental health outcomes depend on respondents’ educational level. Lastly, the risks of reporting poorer mental health were higher in 2013 than in 2005.Context or composition : how does neighbourhood deprivation impact upon adolescent smoking behaviour?Morris, TimManley, Davidvan Ham, Maartenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126972018-02-13T16:30:14Z2018-02-08T00:00:00ZNeighbourhood effects studies have demonstrated an association between area deprivation and smoking behaviour whereby people living in deprived neighbourhoods are more likely to smoke than those in non-deprived neighbourhoods. This evidence though is based largely upon data that ignores long term exposures to neighbourhood contexts and is confounded by neighbourhood selection bias. In this study, we investigate the temporal ordering of exposure to neighbourhood deprivation throughout childhood and whether associations between neighbourhood deprivation and cigarette smoking are due to compositional or contextual neighbourhood effects. Data come from a UK cohort study, the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). We use longitudinal measures of neighbourhood deprivation and self-reported smoking behaviour for 2744 children to examine the influence of neighbourhood deprivation on smoking status and smoking heaviness at age 17. Our results demonstrate that children who are born into and grow up in deprived neighbourhoods are up to twice as likely to be smokers at age 17 than those in non-deprived neighbourhoods. These associations are largely due to family socioeconomic position and the intergenerational transmission of smoking behaviour from parents to children; compositional rather than direct contextual ‘neighbourhood effects’. Our findings highlight the importance of considering longitudinal exposure to neighbourhood deprivation over cross sectional exposure. In conclusion, we find that it is the family rather than the neighbourhood into which a child is born that determines their smoking behaviour.
TM is funded by an Economic and Social Research Council PhD studentship in Advanced Quantitative Methods (ES/J50015X/1). DM and MvH are supported by a European Research Council grant under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP/2007-2013) Agreement n.615159 (ERC Consolidator Grant DEPRIVEDHOODS, Socio-spatial inequality, deprived neighbourhoods, and neighbourhood effects). The UK Medical Research Council and the Wellcome Trust (Grant ref: 102215/2/13/2) and the University of Bristol provide core support for ALSPAC.
2018-02-08T00:00:00ZMorris, TimManley, Davidvan Ham, MaartenNeighbourhood effects studies have demonstrated an association between area deprivation and smoking behaviour whereby people living in deprived neighbourhoods are more likely to smoke than those in non-deprived neighbourhoods. This evidence though is based largely upon data that ignores long term exposures to neighbourhood contexts and is confounded by neighbourhood selection bias. In this study, we investigate the temporal ordering of exposure to neighbourhood deprivation throughout childhood and whether associations between neighbourhood deprivation and cigarette smoking are due to compositional or contextual neighbourhood effects. Data come from a UK cohort study, the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). We use longitudinal measures of neighbourhood deprivation and self-reported smoking behaviour for 2744 children to examine the influence of neighbourhood deprivation on smoking status and smoking heaviness at age 17. Our results demonstrate that children who are born into and grow up in deprived neighbourhoods are up to twice as likely to be smokers at age 17 than those in non-deprived neighbourhoods. These associations are largely due to family socioeconomic position and the intergenerational transmission of smoking behaviour from parents to children; compositional rather than direct contextual ‘neighbourhood effects’. Our findings highlight the importance of considering longitudinal exposure to neighbourhood deprivation over cross sectional exposure. In conclusion, we find that it is the family rather than the neighbourhood into which a child is born that determines their smoking behaviour.The UK Centre for Astrobiology : a virtual astrobiology centre. Accomplishments and lessons learned, 2011-2016Cockell, Charles S.Biller, BethBryce, CaseyCousins, ClaireDireito, SusanaForgan, DuncanFox-Powell, MarkHarrison, JesseLandenmark, HannaNixon, SophiePayler, Samuel J.Rice, KenSamuels, TobySchwendner, PetraStevens, AdamNicholson, NatashaWadsworth, Jenniferhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126962018-03-04T02:31:00Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZThe UK Centre for Astrobiology (UKCA) was set up in 2011 as a virtual center to contribute to astrobiology research, education, and outreach. After 5 years, we describe this center and its work in each of these areas. Its research has focused on studying life in extreme environments, the limits of life on Earth, and implications for habitability elsewhere. Among its research infrastructure projects, UKCA has assembled an underground astrobiology laboratory that has hosted a deep subsurface planetary analog program, and it has developed new flow-through systems to study extraterrestrial aqueous environments. UKCA has used this research backdrop to develop education programs in astrobiology, including a massive open online course in astrobiology that has attracted over 120,000 students, a teacher training program, and an initiative to take astrobiology into prisons. In this paper, we review these activities and others with a particular focus on providing lessons to others who may consider setting up an astrobiology center, institute, or science facility. We discuss experience in integrating astrobiology research into teaching and education activities.
Authors thank all those individuals, UK research councils, funding agencies, nonprofit organisations, companies and corporations and UK and non-UK government agencies, who have so generously supported our aspirations and hopes over the last 5 years and supported UKCA projects. They include the STFC, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the Natural Environmental Research Council (NERC), the EU, the UK Space Agency, NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), The Crown Estate, Cleveland Potash and others. The Astrobiology Academy has been supported by the UK Space Agency (UKSA), National Space Centre, the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), Dynamic Earth, The Royal Astronomical Society, The Rotary Club (Shetlands) and the NASA Astrobiology Institute.
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZCockell, Charles S.Biller, BethBryce, CaseyCousins, ClaireDireito, SusanaForgan, DuncanFox-Powell, MarkHarrison, JesseLandenmark, HannaNixon, SophiePayler, Samuel J.Rice, KenSamuels, TobySchwendner, PetraStevens, AdamNicholson, NatashaWadsworth, JenniferThe UK Centre for Astrobiology (UKCA) was set up in 2011 as a virtual center to contribute to astrobiology research, education, and outreach. After 5 years, we describe this center and its work in each of these areas. Its research has focused on studying life in extreme environments, the limits of life on Earth, and implications for habitability elsewhere. Among its research infrastructure projects, UKCA has assembled an underground astrobiology laboratory that has hosted a deep subsurface planetary analog program, and it has developed new flow-through systems to study extraterrestrial aqueous environments. UKCA has used this research backdrop to develop education programs in astrobiology, including a massive open online course in astrobiology that has attracted over 120,000 students, a teacher training program, and an initiative to take astrobiology into prisons. In this paper, we review these activities and others with a particular focus on providing lessons to others who may consider setting up an astrobiology center, institute, or science facility. We discuss experience in integrating astrobiology research into teaching and education activities.Energy limitation of cyanophage development : implications for marine carbon cyclingPuxty, Richard J.Evans, David J.Millard, Andrew D.Scanlan, David J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126922018-02-12T10:30:09Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZMarine cyanobacteria are responsible for ~25% of the fixed carbon that enters the ocean biosphere. It is thought that abundant co-occurring viruses play an important role in regulating population dynamics of cyanobacteria and thus the cycling of carbon in the oceans. Despite this, little is known about how viral infections ‘play-out’ in the environment, particularly whether infections are resource or energy limited. Photoautotrophic organisms represent an ideal model to test this since available energy is modulated by the incoming light intensity through photophosphorylation. Therefore, we exploited phototrophy of the environmentally relevant marine cyanobacterium Synechococcus and monitored growth of a cyanobacterial virus (cyanophage). We found that light intensity has a marked effect on cyanophage infection dynamics, but that this is not manifest by a change in DNA synthesis. Instead, cyanophage development appears energy limited for the synthesis of proteins required during late infection. We posit that acquisition of auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) involved in light-dependent photosynthetic reactions acts to overcome this limitation. We show that cyanophages actively modulate expression of these AMGs in response to light intensity and provide evidence that such regulation may be facilitated by a novel mechanism involving light-dependent splicing of a group I intron in a photosynthetic AMG. Altogether, our data offers a mechanistic link between diurnal changes in irradiance and observed community level responses in metabolism, i.e., through an irradiance-dependent, viral-induced release of dissolved organic matter (DOM).
RJP was in receipt of a Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) PhD studentship and a Warwick University IAS Fellowship. This work was also supported in part by NERC grant NE/N003241/1 and Leverhulme Trust grant RPG-2014-354 to A.D.M., D.J.E., and D.J.S.
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZPuxty, Richard J.Evans, David J.Millard, Andrew D.Scanlan, David J.Marine cyanobacteria are responsible for ~25% of the fixed carbon that enters the ocean biosphere. It is thought that abundant co-occurring viruses play an important role in regulating population dynamics of cyanobacteria and thus the cycling of carbon in the oceans. Despite this, little is known about how viral infections ‘play-out’ in the environment, particularly whether infections are resource or energy limited. Photoautotrophic organisms represent an ideal model to test this since available energy is modulated by the incoming light intensity through photophosphorylation. Therefore, we exploited phototrophy of the environmentally relevant marine cyanobacterium Synechococcus and monitored growth of a cyanobacterial virus (cyanophage). We found that light intensity has a marked effect on cyanophage infection dynamics, but that this is not manifest by a change in DNA synthesis. Instead, cyanophage development appears energy limited for the synthesis of proteins required during late infection. We posit that acquisition of auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) involved in light-dependent photosynthetic reactions acts to overcome this limitation. We show that cyanophages actively modulate expression of these AMGs in response to light intensity and provide evidence that such regulation may be facilitated by a novel mechanism involving light-dependent splicing of a group I intron in a photosynthetic AMG. Altogether, our data offers a mechanistic link between diurnal changes in irradiance and observed community level responses in metabolism, i.e., through an irradiance-dependent, viral-induced release of dissolved organic matter (DOM).Perhaps the Dodo should have accounted For Human Beings? : Accounts of humanity and (its) extinctionGray, Robert HughMIlne, Markushttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126912018-02-09T00:15:59Z2018-02-06T00:00:00ZPurpose: We intend to offer a counter-narrative to those accounts of specific species extinction. Our intention is to offer a counter narrative that places humanity’s ways of organising at the core and recognises that only fundamental re-appraisal of (western) humanity’s current taken-for-granted narratives offers any hope for biodiversity and sustainability. Thus we seek to offer a narrative that might challenge producers of accounts of all sorts to reconsider the context and level of resolution of their accounts. We do this by first arguing that humankind is the root cause of most (if not all) current species extinctions. We then argue that such extinctions represent one reason why humanity might itself be threatened with extinction… or indeed, why human extinction might be a good thing. We need new accounts and utopian possibilities with which to imagine other, better, futures. Design/methodological/approach: The piece is an essay which assembles a wide range of literature in order to support its contentions. Findings: There are many individual accounts of species which explore the (albeit very serious) symptoms of a problem without, we maintain, examining the systematic source of the problem. The source problem is western mankind’s organisation and somewhat taciturn conception of humanity. There is a lack of accounts offering new possibilities. Research Limitations/Implications: The piece is an essay and, consequently limited to the quality of the argument presented. The essay suggests that the principal implications relate to (i) how producers of counter-accounts frame their construction of accounts and (ii) how accounts of species extinction need to be more cognizant of underlying causes. Practical Implications: Without substantial change, planetary ecology, including humanity, is very seriously threatened. Imagining a plausible future is a most practical act of faith. Social Implications: The essay suggests that as accountants we might think to approach our counter-accounts with a lower level of resolution: one that is directed towards a more challenging notion of what it is to be human. Originality/value: Whilst building upon the growing sophistication in our understanding of (new) accounts and responding to the emerging literatures on biodiversity, species extinction and utopian vision we offer what we believe to be a unique suggestion in the accounting literature about the extinction of mankind.
2018-02-06T00:00:00ZGray, Robert HughMIlne, MarkusPurpose: We intend to offer a counter-narrative to those accounts of specific species extinction. Our intention is to offer a counter narrative that places humanity’s ways of organising at the core and recognises that only fundamental re-appraisal of (western) humanity’s current taken-for-granted narratives offers any hope for biodiversity and sustainability. Thus we seek to offer a narrative that might challenge producers of accounts of all sorts to reconsider the context and level of resolution of their accounts. We do this by first arguing that humankind is the root cause of most (if not all) current species extinctions. We then argue that such extinctions represent one reason why humanity might itself be threatened with extinction… or indeed, why human extinction might be a good thing. We need new accounts and utopian possibilities with which to imagine other, better, futures. Design/methodological/approach: The piece is an essay which assembles a wide range of literature in order to support its contentions. Findings: There are many individual accounts of species which explore the (albeit very serious) symptoms of a problem without, we maintain, examining the systematic source of the problem. The source problem is western mankind’s organisation and somewhat taciturn conception of humanity. There is a lack of accounts offering new possibilities. Research Limitations/Implications: The piece is an essay and, consequently limited to the quality of the argument presented. The essay suggests that the principal implications relate to (i) how producers of counter-accounts frame their construction of accounts and (ii) how accounts of species extinction need to be more cognizant of underlying causes. Practical Implications: Without substantial change, planetary ecology, including humanity, is very seriously threatened. Imagining a plausible future is a most practical act of faith. Social Implications: The essay suggests that as accountants we might think to approach our counter-accounts with a lower level of resolution: one that is directed towards a more challenging notion of what it is to be human. Originality/value: Whilst building upon the growing sophistication in our understanding of (new) accounts and responding to the emerging literatures on biodiversity, species extinction and utopian vision we offer what we believe to be a unique suggestion in the accounting literature about the extinction of mankind.Socially transmitted diffusion of a novel behavior from subordinate chimpanzeesWatson, Stuart K.Reamer, Lisa A.Mareno, Mary CatherineVale, GillianHarrison, Rachel A.Lambeth, Susan P.Schapiro, Steven J.Whiten, Andrewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126902018-03-04T01:40:45Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZChimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) demonstrate much cultural diversity in the wild, yet a majority of novel behaviors do not become group-wide traditions. Since many such novel behaviors are introduced by low-ranking individuals, a bias toward copying dominant individuals (“rank-bias”) has been proposed as an explanation for their limited diffusion. Previous experimental work showed that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) preferentially copy dominant over low-rank models. We investigated whether low ranking individuals may nevertheless successfully seed a beneficial behavior as a tradition if there are no “competing” models. In each of four captive groups, either a single high-rank (HR, n = 2) or a low-rank (LR, n = 2) chimpanzee model was trained on one method of opening a two-action puzzle-box, before demonstrating the trained method in a group context. This was followed by 8 hr of group-wide, open-access to the puzzle-box. Successful manipulations and observers of each manipulation were recorded. Barnard's exact tests showed that individuals in the LR groups used the seeded method as their first-choice option at significantly above chance levels, whereas those in the HR groups did not. Furthermore, individuals in the LR condition used the seeded method on their first attempt significantly more often than those in the HR condition. A network-based diffusion analysis (NBDA) revealed that the best supported statistical models were those in which social transmission occurred only in groups with subordinate models. Finally, we report an innovation by a subordinate individual that built cumulatively on existing methods of opening the puzzle-box and was subsequently copied by a dominant observer. These findings illustrate that chimpanzees are motivated to copy rewarding novel behaviors that are demonstrated by subordinate individuals and that, in some cases, social transmission may be constrained by high-rank demonstrators.
SKW, GV, RAH, and AW are grateful for the support of the John Templeton Foundation, grant ID40128, “Exploring the evolutionary foundations of cultural complexity, creativity and trust” to AW and Kevin Laland, which funded this project.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZWatson, Stuart K.Reamer, Lisa A.Mareno, Mary CatherineVale, GillianHarrison, Rachel A.Lambeth, Susan P.Schapiro, Steven J.Whiten, AndrewChimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) demonstrate much cultural diversity in the wild, yet a majority of novel behaviors do not become group-wide traditions. Since many such novel behaviors are introduced by low-ranking individuals, a bias toward copying dominant individuals (“rank-bias”) has been proposed as an explanation for their limited diffusion. Previous experimental work showed that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) preferentially copy dominant over low-rank models. We investigated whether low ranking individuals may nevertheless successfully seed a beneficial behavior as a tradition if there are no “competing” models. In each of four captive groups, either a single high-rank (HR, n = 2) or a low-rank (LR, n = 2) chimpanzee model was trained on one method of opening a two-action puzzle-box, before demonstrating the trained method in a group context. This was followed by 8 hr of group-wide, open-access to the puzzle-box. Successful manipulations and observers of each manipulation were recorded. Barnard's exact tests showed that individuals in the LR groups used the seeded method as their first-choice option at significantly above chance levels, whereas those in the HR groups did not. Furthermore, individuals in the LR condition used the seeded method on their first attempt significantly more often than those in the HR condition. A network-based diffusion analysis (NBDA) revealed that the best supported statistical models were those in which social transmission occurred only in groups with subordinate models. Finally, we report an innovation by a subordinate individual that built cumulatively on existing methods of opening the puzzle-box and was subsequently copied by a dominant observer. These findings illustrate that chimpanzees are motivated to copy rewarding novel behaviors that are demonstrated by subordinate individuals and that, in some cases, social transmission may be constrained by high-rank demonstrators.REBOA at Role 2 Afloat : resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta as a bridge to damage control surgery in the military maritime settingRees, PaulWaller, B.Buckley, A. M.Doran, C.Bland, S.Scott, T.Matthews, J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126892018-02-16T15:30:08Z2017-12-20T00:00:00ZRole 2 Afloat provides a damage control resuscitation and surgery facility in support of maritime, littoral and aviation operations. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) offers a rapid, effective solution to exsanguinating haemorrhage from pelvic and non-compressible torso haemorrhage. It should be considered when the patient presents in a peri-arrest state, if surgery is likely to be delayed, or where the single operating table is occupied by another case. This paper will outline the data in support of endovascular haemorrhage control, describe the technique and explore how REBOA could be delivered using equipment currently available in the Royal Navy Role 2 Afloat equipment module. Also discussed are potential future directions in endovascular resuscitation.
2017-12-20T00:00:00ZRees, PaulWaller, B.Buckley, A. M.Doran, C.Bland, S.Scott, T.Matthews, J.Role 2 Afloat provides a damage control resuscitation and surgery facility in support of maritime, littoral and aviation operations. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) offers a rapid, effective solution to exsanguinating haemorrhage from pelvic and non-compressible torso haemorrhage. It should be considered when the patient presents in a peri-arrest state, if surgery is likely to be delayed, or where the single operating table is occupied by another case. This paper will outline the data in support of endovascular haemorrhage control, describe the technique and explore how REBOA could be delivered using equipment currently available in the Royal Navy Role 2 Afloat equipment module. Also discussed are potential future directions in endovascular resuscitation.Scope and limitations of a DMF bio-alternative within Sonogashira cross-coupling and Cacchi-type annulationWilson, KirstyKennedy, AlanMurray, JaneGreatex, BenJamieson, CraigWatson, Allanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126882018-03-18T02:30:31Z2016-09-08T00:00:00ZPd-catalysed C-C bond formation is an essential tool within the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Many of these reactions rely heavily on polar aprotic solvents; however, despite their utility, these solvents are incompatible with the drive towards more sustainable chemical synthesis. Herein, we describe the scope and limitations of an alternative to DMF derived from renewable sources (CyreneTM) in Sonogashira crosscoupling and Cacchi-type annulations.
We thank the University of Strathclyde for a PhD studentship (KLW), Sigma-Aldrich for financial and material support, Circa for Cyrene, and the EPSRC UK National Mass Spectrometry Facility at Swansea University for analyses.
2016-09-08T00:00:00ZWilson, KirstyKennedy, AlanMurray, JaneGreatex, BenJamieson, CraigWatson, AllanPd-catalysed C-C bond formation is an essential tool within the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Many of these reactions rely heavily on polar aprotic solvents; however, despite their utility, these solvents are incompatible with the drive towards more sustainable chemical synthesis. Herein, we describe the scope and limitations of an alternative to DMF derived from renewable sources (CyreneTM) in Sonogashira crosscoupling and Cacchi-type annulations.Chemoselective oxidation of aryl organoboron systems enabled by boronic acid-selective phase transferMolloy, John J.Clohessy, Thomas AidanIrving, CraigAnderson, Niall A.Lloyd-Jones, Guy C.Watson, Allan J. B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126872018-02-18T01:39:05Z2017-02-01T00:00:00ZWe report the direct chemoselective Brown-type oxidation of aryl organoboron systems containing two oxidizable boron groups. Basic biphasic reaction conditions enable selective formation and phase transfer of a boronic acid trihydroxyboronate in the presence of boronic acid pinacol (BPin) esters, while avoiding speciation equilibria. Spectroscopic investigations validate a base-promoted phase-selective discrimination of organoboron species. This phenomenon is general across a broad range of organoboron compounds and can also be used to invert conventional protecting group strategies, enabling chemoselective oxidation of BMIDA species over normally more reactive BPin substrates. We also demonstrate the selective oxidation of diboronic acid systems with chemoselectivity predictable a priori. The utility of this method is exemplified through the development of a chemoselective oxidative nucleophile coupling.
The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007–2013)/ERC grant agreement no. [340163]. This work was supported by the EPSRC. We thank the EPSRC and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for PhD studentships (JJM and TAC),
2017-02-01T00:00:00ZMolloy, John J.Clohessy, Thomas AidanIrving, CraigAnderson, Niall A.Lloyd-Jones, Guy C.Watson, Allan J. B.We report the direct chemoselective Brown-type oxidation of aryl organoboron systems containing two oxidizable boron groups. Basic biphasic reaction conditions enable selective formation and phase transfer of a boronic acid trihydroxyboronate in the presence of boronic acid pinacol (BPin) esters, while avoiding speciation equilibria. Spectroscopic investigations validate a base-promoted phase-selective discrimination of organoboron species. This phenomenon is general across a broad range of organoboron compounds and can also be used to invert conventional protecting group strategies, enabling chemoselective oxidation of BMIDA species over normally more reactive BPin substrates. We also demonstrate the selective oxidation of diboronic acid systems with chemoselectivity predictable a priori. The utility of this method is exemplified through the development of a chemoselective oxidative nucleophile coupling.C.S. Lewis on relations between the ChurchesWolfe, Brendanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126852018-03-18T00:33:39Z2011-01-01T00:00:00ZThere are three separate themes in Lewis’ thought, interestingly all present in the Preface to Mere Christianity, which touch upon the relations between the churches, or denominations, of his day and ours. The first is his didactic commitment to a mere Christianity, a presentation of Christianity in which the differences between denominations are not discussed or emphasized, in order to attract unbelievers. The second is his occasional enunciation of Anglican doctrines, and strong self-identification as a layman of the Church of England. The third is made up of comments on the question itself; that is, explicit discussion of the existence of multiple Christian confessions, and what to make of them. This chapter is a commentary on Lewis’ words in the Preface, and a brief elaboration of each of these three themes
2011-01-01T00:00:00ZWolfe, BrendanThere are three separate themes in Lewis’ thought, interestingly all present in the Preface to Mere Christianity, which touch upon the relations between the churches, or denominations, of his day and ours. The first is his didactic commitment to a mere Christianity, a presentation of Christianity in which the differences between denominations are not discussed or emphasized, in order to attract unbelievers. The second is his occasional enunciation of Anglican doctrines, and strong self-identification as a layman of the Church of England. The third is made up of comments on the question itself; that is, explicit discussion of the existence of multiple Christian confessions, and what to make of them. This chapter is a commentary on Lewis’ words in the Preface, and a brief elaboration of each of these three themesOne-pot homologation of boronic acidsMuir, Calum W.Vantourout, Julien C.Isidro-Llobet, AlbertMacdonald, Simon J. F.Watson, Allan J. B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126842018-03-18T02:30:31Z2015-12-18T00:00:00ZFormal homologation of sp2-hybridized boronic acids is achieved via cross-coupling of boronic acids with conjunctive haloaryl BMIDA components in the presence of a suitably balanced basic phase. The utility of this approach to provide a platform for diversity-oriented synthesis in discovery medicinal chemistry is demonstrated in the context of the synthesis of a series of analogues of a BET bromodomain inhibitor.
This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
2015-12-18T00:00:00ZMuir, Calum W.Vantourout, Julien C.Isidro-Llobet, AlbertMacdonald, Simon J. F.Watson, Allan J. B.Formal homologation of sp2-hybridized boronic acids is achieved via cross-coupling of boronic acids with conjunctive haloaryl BMIDA components in the presence of a suitably balanced basic phase. The utility of this approach to provide a platform for diversity-oriented synthesis in discovery medicinal chemistry is demonstrated in the context of the synthesis of a series of analogues of a BET bromodomain inhibitor.Chemoselective boronic ester synthesis via controlled speciationFyfe, James W. B.Seath, Ciaran P.Watson, Allan J. B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126832018-03-18T02:30:30Z2014-11-03T00:00:00ZControl of boronic acid solution speciation is presented as a new strategy for the chemoselective synthesis of boronic esters. Manipulation of the solution equilibria within a cross-coupling milieu enables the formal homologation of aryl and alkenyl boronic acid pinacol esters. The generation of a new, reactive boronic ester in the presence of an active Pd catalyst also facilitates streamlined iterative catalytic C—C bond formation and provides a method for the controlled oligomerization of sp2-hybridized boronic esters.
2014-11-03T00:00:00ZFyfe, James W. B.Seath, Ciaran P.Watson, Allan J. B.Control of boronic acid solution speciation is presented as a new strategy for the chemoselective synthesis of boronic esters. Manipulation of the solution equilibria within a cross-coupling milieu enables the formal homologation of aryl and alkenyl boronic acid pinacol esters. The generation of a new, reactive boronic ester in the presence of an active Pd catalyst also facilitates streamlined iterative catalytic C—C bond formation and provides a method for the controlled oligomerization of sp2-hybridized boronic esters.Prominence formation and ejection in cool starsVillarreal D'Angelo, Carolina SusanaJardine, Moira MarySee, Wyke Chun Victorhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126822018-02-11T00:32:26Z2018-03-21T00:00:00ZThe observational signatures of prominences have been detected in single and binary G and K type stars for many years now, but recently this has been extended to the M dwarf regime. Prominences carry away both mass and angular momentum when they are ejected and the impact of this mass on any orbiting planets may be important for the evolution of exoplanetary atmospheres. By means of the classification used in the massive star community, that involves knowledge of two parameters (the co-rotation and Alfvén radii, rK and rA), we have determined which cool stars could support prominences. From a model of mechanical support, we have determined that the prominence mass mp/M*=(EM/EG)(r*/rK)2F where EMB2⋆r3⋆ and EG=GM2⋆/r⋆ are magnetic and gravitational energies and F is a geometric factor. Our calculated masses and ejection frequencies (typically 1016−1017g and 0.4 d, respectively) are consistent with observations and are sufficient to ensure that an exoplanet orbiting in the habitable zone of an M dwarf could suffer frequent impacts.
We acknowledge STFC (ST/M001296/1) and H2020 (682393).
2018-03-21T00:00:00ZVillarreal D'Angelo, Carolina SusanaJardine, Moira MarySee, Wyke Chun VictorThe observational signatures of prominences have been detected in single and binary G and K type stars for many years now, but recently this has been extended to the M dwarf regime. Prominences carry away both mass and angular momentum when they are ejected and the impact of this mass on any orbiting planets may be important for the evolution of exoplanetary atmospheres. By means of the classification used in the massive star community, that involves knowledge of two parameters (the co-rotation and Alfvén radii, rK and rA), we have determined which cool stars could support prominences. From a model of mechanical support, we have determined that the prominence mass mp/M*=(EM/EG)(r*/rK)2F where EMB2⋆r3⋆ and EG=GM2⋆/r⋆ are magnetic and gravitational energies and F is a geometric factor. Our calculated masses and ejection frequencies (typically 1016−1017g and 0.4 d, respectively) are consistent with observations and are sufficient to ensure that an exoplanet orbiting in the habitable zone of an M dwarf could suffer frequent impacts.Modular,step-efficient palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling strategy to access C6-heteroaryl 2-aminopurine ribonucleosidesBuchanan, Helena S.Pauff, Steven M.Kosmidis, Tilemachos D.Taladriz-Sender, AndreaRutherford, Olivia I.Hatit, Marine Z. C.Fenner, SabineWatson, Allan J. B.Burley, Glenn A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126802018-02-11T01:36:14Z2017-07-21T00:00:00ZTwo Pd-catalyzed methods to access 6-heteroaryl 2-aminopurine ribonucleosides from 6-chloroguanosine are described. First, Pd-132-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling using a series of boron substrates and 6-chloroguanosine forms 6-heteroaryl-2-aminopurines in a single step. The versatility of 6-chloroguanosine is further demonstrated using a modified Sonogashira coupling employing potassium iodide as an additive. Finally, the utility of the 6-alkynyl-2-aminopurine ribonucleoside as a dipolarophile in [3 + 2] cycloadditions is presented, affording triazoles and isoxazoles when reacted with azide and isonitrile 1,3-dipoles, respectively.
This work was supported by an EPSRC-GSK industrial CASE studentship for H.B., a University studentship for T.D.K., and postdoctoral funding for S.P. by the Leverhulme Trust (RPG-2014-313).
2017-07-21T00:00:00ZBuchanan, Helena S.Pauff, Steven M.Kosmidis, Tilemachos D.Taladriz-Sender, AndreaRutherford, Olivia I.Hatit, Marine Z. C.Fenner, SabineWatson, Allan J. B.Burley, Glenn A.Two Pd-catalyzed methods to access 6-heteroaryl 2-aminopurine ribonucleosides from 6-chloroguanosine are described. First, Pd-132-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling using a series of boron substrates and 6-chloroguanosine forms 6-heteroaryl-2-aminopurines in a single step. The versatility of 6-chloroguanosine is further demonstrated using a modified Sonogashira coupling employing potassium iodide as an additive. Finally, the utility of the 6-alkynyl-2-aminopurine ribonucleoside as a dipolarophile in [3 + 2] cycloadditions is presented, affording triazoles and isoxazoles when reacted with azide and isonitrile 1,3-dipoles, respectively.The increasing mortality advantage of the married : the role played by educationKravdal, ØysteinGrundy, EmilyKeenan, Katherinehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126792018-03-04T02:30:59Z2018-02-02T00:00:00ZBackground : In several European countries the excess mortality of nonmarried people relative to the married has increased. In this study we describe in detail the increasing mortality advantage of the married in Norway and investigate the extent to which changes in educational composition of marital-status groups can account for this increasing mortality gap. Methods : Using register data for the entire population of Norway, we estimated discrete-time hazard models for mortality at age 50–89 in years 1975–2008. We also estimated one-year death probabilities by age, period, marital status, education, and spouse’s education. These were used to calculate period-specific age-standardized death probabilities for marital-status categories and hypothetical versions of these, assuming constant death probabilities in each educational group in each marital-status category or constant educational distributions. Hypothetical and observed versions were then compared. Results : The mortality of nonmarried people relative to married people increased sharply over the years 1975–2008. During the first part of this period, mortality was constant or even increasing among the never-married, who at the end of the period could be considered as lagging 30 years behind the married. Educational patterns have changed markedly, but this explains only up to 5% of the increasing mortality disadvantage of the never-married. Educational changes have contributed more to the growing disadvantage of the widowed, while the picture is more mixed for the divorced. Contribution : We demonstrate that there has been a large widening in the marital-status differences in mortality in Norway since the 1970s and that little of this difference can be attributed to changes in educational distributions.
The research on which this article is based has received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2008–2013)/ERC grant agreement no. 324055, Principal Investigator Emily Grundy. The research has also been supported by the Research Council of Norway through its Centres of Excellence funding scheme, project number 262700 (Centre for Fertility and Health).
2018-02-02T00:00:00ZKravdal, ØysteinGrundy, EmilyKeenan, KatherineBackground : In several European countries the excess mortality of nonmarried people relative to the married has increased. In this study we describe in detail the increasing mortality advantage of the married in Norway and investigate the extent to which changes in educational composition of marital-status groups can account for this increasing mortality gap. Methods : Using register data for the entire population of Norway, we estimated discrete-time hazard models for mortality at age 50–89 in years 1975–2008. We also estimated one-year death probabilities by age, period, marital status, education, and spouse’s education. These were used to calculate period-specific age-standardized death probabilities for marital-status categories and hypothetical versions of these, assuming constant death probabilities in each educational group in each marital-status category or constant educational distributions. Hypothetical and observed versions were then compared. Results : The mortality of nonmarried people relative to married people increased sharply over the years 1975–2008. During the first part of this period, mortality was constant or even increasing among the never-married, who at the end of the period could be considered as lagging 30 years behind the married. Educational patterns have changed markedly, but this explains only up to 5% of the increasing mortality disadvantage of the never-married. Educational changes have contributed more to the growing disadvantage of the widowed, while the picture is more mixed for the divorced. Contribution : We demonstrate that there has been a large widening in the marital-status differences in mortality in Norway since the 1970s and that little of this difference can be attributed to changes in educational distributions.Driven-dissipative spin chain model based on exciton-polariton condensatesSigurdsson, H.Ramsay, A. J.Ohadi, H.Rubo, Y. G.Liew, T. C.H.Baumberg, J. J.Shelykh, I. A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126782018-02-07T10:30:15Z2017-10-15T00:00:00ZAn infinite chain of driven-dissipative condensate spins with uniform nearest-neighbor coherent coupling is solved analytically and investigated numerically. Above a critical occupation threshold the condensates undergo spontaneous spin bifurcation (becoming magnetized) forming a binary chain of spin-up or spin-down states. Minimization of the bifurcation threshold determines the magnetic order as a function of the coupling strength. This allows control of multiple magnetic orders via adiabatic (slow ramping of) pumping. In addition to ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordered states we show the formation of a paired-spin ordered state |···↑↑↓↓···⟩ as a consequence of the phase degree of freedom between condensates.
This work was supported by the Research Fund of the University of Iceland, The Icelandic Research Fund, Grant No. 163082-051, Grant No. EPSRC EP/L027151/1, Grant No. ERC LINASS 320503, the Mexican Conacyt Grant No. 251808, and the Singaporean MOE GrantsNo. 2015-T2-1-055 and No. 2016-T1-1-084. I.A.S. acknowledges support from a mega-grant No. 14.Y26.31.0015 and GOSZADANIE No.3.2614.2017/4.6 of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russian Federation.
2017-10-15T00:00:00ZSigurdsson, H.Ramsay, A. J.Ohadi, H.Rubo, Y. G.Liew, T. C.H.Baumberg, J. J.Shelykh, I. A.An infinite chain of driven-dissipative condensate spins with uniform nearest-neighbor coherent coupling is solved analytically and investigated numerically. Above a critical occupation threshold the condensates undergo spontaneous spin bifurcation (becoming magnetized) forming a binary chain of spin-up or spin-down states. Minimization of the bifurcation threshold determines the magnetic order as a function of the coupling strength. This allows control of multiple magnetic orders via adiabatic (slow ramping of) pumping. In addition to ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordered states we show the formation of a paired-spin ordered state |···↑↑↓↓···⟩ as a consequence of the phase degree of freedom between condensates.Strain-assisted optomechanical coupling of polariton condensate spin to a micromechanical resonatorBe'Er, O.Ohadi, H.Del Valle-Inclan Redondo, Y.Ramsay, A. J.Tsintzos, S. I.Hatzopoulos, Z.Savvidis, P. G.Baumberg, J. J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126772018-02-07T00:15:58Z2017-12-27T00:00:00ZWe report spin and intensity coupling of an exciton-polariton condensate to the mechanical vibrations of a circular membrane microcavity. We optically drive the microcavity resonator at the lowest mechanical resonance frequency while creating an optically trapped spin-polarized polariton condensate in different locations on the microcavity and observe spin and intensity oscillations of the condensate at the vibration frequency of the resonator. Spin oscillations are induced by vibrational strain driving, whilst the modulation of the optical trap due to the displacement of the membrane causes intensity oscillations in the condensate emission. Our results demonstrate spin-phonon coupling in a macroscopically coherent condensate.
We acknowledge Grant Nos. EPSRC EP/L027151/1, ERC LINASS 320503, and Leverhulme Trust Grant No. VP1-2013-011. P.S. acknowledges support from ITMO Fellowship Program and megaGrant No. 14.Y26.31.0015 of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russian Federation. A.J.R. acknowledges support of Horizon 2020 programme (No. FETPROACT-2016 732894-HOT). Supporting research data can be found at: http://doi.org/10.17863/CAM.16887.
2017-12-27T00:00:00ZBe'Er, O.Ohadi, H.Del Valle-Inclan Redondo, Y.Ramsay, A. J.Tsintzos, S. I.Hatzopoulos, Z.Savvidis, P. G.Baumberg, J. J.We report spin and intensity coupling of an exciton-polariton condensate to the mechanical vibrations of a circular membrane microcavity. We optically drive the microcavity resonator at the lowest mechanical resonance frequency while creating an optically trapped spin-polarized polariton condensate in different locations on the microcavity and observe spin and intensity oscillations of the condensate at the vibration frequency of the resonator. Spin oscillations are induced by vibrational strain driving, whilst the modulation of the optical trap due to the displacement of the membrane causes intensity oscillations in the condensate emission. Our results demonstrate spin-phonon coupling in a macroscopically coherent condensate.Room-temperature relaxor ferroelectricity and photovoltaic effects in tin titanate directly deposited on silicon substrateAgarwal, RSharma, YChang, SPitike, KSohn, CNakhmanson, STakoudis, CLee, HTonelli, RGardner, JonathanScott, James F.Katiyar, RHong, Shttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126762018-03-11T00:33:33Z2018-02-20T00:00:00ZTin titanate (SnTiO3) has been notoriously impossible to prepare as a thin-film ferroelectric, probably because high-temperature annealing converts much of the Sn2+ to Sn4+. In the present paper, we show two things: first, perovskite phase SnTiO3 can be prepared by ALD directly onto p-type Si substrates; and second, these films exhibit ferroelectric switching at room temperature, with p-type Si acting as electrodes. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements reveal that the film is single-phase, preferred-orientation ferroelectric perovskite SnTiO3. Our films showed well-saturated, square and repeatable hysteresis loopsof around 3 μC/cm2 remnant polarization at room temperature, as detected by out-of-plane polarization versus electric field (P-E) and field cycling measurements. Furthermore, photovoltaic and photoferroelectricity were found in Pt/SnTiO3/Si/SnTiO3/Pt heterostructures, of which properties can be tuned through band gap engineering by strain according to the first-principles calculations. This is a new lead-free room-temperature ferroelectric oxide of potential device application.
2018-02-20T00:00:00ZAgarwal, RSharma, YChang, SPitike, KSohn, CNakhmanson, STakoudis, CLee, HTonelli, RGardner, JonathanScott, James F.Katiyar, RHong, STin titanate (SnTiO3) has been notoriously impossible to prepare as a thin-film ferroelectric, probably because high-temperature annealing converts much of the Sn2+ to Sn4+. In the present paper, we show two things: first, perovskite phase SnTiO3 can be prepared by ALD directly onto p-type Si substrates; and second, these films exhibit ferroelectric switching at room temperature, with p-type Si acting as electrodes. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements reveal that the film is single-phase, preferred-orientation ferroelectric perovskite SnTiO3. Our films showed well-saturated, square and repeatable hysteresis loopsof around 3 μC/cm2 remnant polarization at room temperature, as detected by out-of-plane polarization versus electric field (P-E) and field cycling measurements. Furthermore, photovoltaic and photoferroelectricity were found in Pt/SnTiO3/Si/SnTiO3/Pt heterostructures, of which properties can be tuned through band gap engineering by strain according to the first-principles calculations. This is a new lead-free room-temperature ferroelectric oxide of potential device application.Multi-scale measures of population : within and between city variation in exposure to the socio-spatial contextPetrović, Anavan Ham, MaartenManley, Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126742018-02-18T01:38:50Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZAppreciating spatial scale is crucial for our understanding of the socio-spatial context. Multi-scale measures of population have been developed in the segregation and neighbourhood effects literatures, which have acknowledged the role of a variety of spatial contexts for individual outcomes and inter-group contacts. Although existing studies dealing with socio-spatial inequalities increasingly explore the effects of spatial scale, there has been little systematic evidence on how exposure to socio-spatial contexts changes across urban space, both within and between cities. This paper presents a multi-scale approach to measuring potential exposure to others. Using individual level register data for the full population of the Netherlands, and an exceptionally detailed multi-scalar framework of bespoke neighbourhoods at 101 spatial scales, we measured the share of non-Western ethnic minorities for three Dutch cities with different urban forms. We created individual and cumulative distance profiles of ethnic exposure, mapped ethnic exposure surfaces, and applied entropy as a measure of scalar variation to compare potential exposure to others in different locations both within and between cities. The multi-scale approach can be implemented for examining a variety of social processes, notably segregation and neighbourhood effects.
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZPetrović, Anavan Ham, MaartenManley, DavidAppreciating spatial scale is crucial for our understanding of the socio-spatial context. Multi-scale measures of population have been developed in the segregation and neighbourhood effects literatures, which have acknowledged the role of a variety of spatial contexts for individual outcomes and inter-group contacts. Although existing studies dealing with socio-spatial inequalities increasingly explore the effects of spatial scale, there has been little systematic evidence on how exposure to socio-spatial contexts changes across urban space, both within and between cities. This paper presents a multi-scale approach to measuring potential exposure to others. Using individual level register data for the full population of the Netherlands, and an exceptionally detailed multi-scalar framework of bespoke neighbourhoods at 101 spatial scales, we measured the share of non-Western ethnic minorities for three Dutch cities with different urban forms. We created individual and cumulative distance profiles of ethnic exposure, mapped ethnic exposure surfaces, and applied entropy as a measure of scalar variation to compare potential exposure to others in different locations both within and between cities. The multi-scale approach can be implemented for examining a variety of social processes, notably segregation and neighbourhood effects.16S rRNA gene metabarcoding and TEM reveals different ecological strategies within the genus Neogloboquadrina (planktonic foraminifer)Bird, ClareDarling, Kate F.Russell, Ann D.Fehrenbacher, Jennifer S.Davis, Catherine V.Free, AndrewNgwenya, Bryne T.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126732018-02-11T01:36:13Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZUncovering the complexities of trophic and metabolic interactions among microorganisms is essential for the understanding of marine biogeochemical cycling and modelling climate-driven ecosystem shifts. High-throughput DNA sequencing methods provide valuable tools for examining these complex interactions, although this remains challenging, as many microorganisms are difficult to isolate, identify and culture. We use two species of planktonic foraminifera from the climatically susceptible, palaeoceanographically important genus Neogloboquadrina, as ideal test microorganisms for the application of 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding. Neogloboquadrina dutertrei and Neogloboquadrina incompta were collected from the California Current and subjected to either 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, fluorescence microscopy, or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate their species-specific trophic interactions and potential symbiotic associations. 53–99% of 16S rRNA gene sequences recovered from two specimens of N. dutertrei were assigned to a single operational taxonomic unit (OTU) from a chloroplast of the phylum Stramenopile. TEM observations confirmed the presence of numerous intact coccoid algae within the host cell, consistent with algal symbionts. Based on sequence data and observed ultrastructure, we taxonomically assign the putative algal symbionts to Pelagophyceae and not Chrysophyceae, as previously reported in this species. In addition, our data shows that N. dutertrei feeds on protists within particulate organic matter (POM), but not on bacteria as a major food source. In total contrast, of OTUs recovered from three N. incompta specimens, 83–95% were assigned to bacterial classes Alteromonadales and Vibrionales of the order Gammaproteobacteria. TEM demonstrates that these bacteria are a food source, not putative symbionts. Contrary to the current view that non-spinose foraminifera are predominantly herbivorous, neither N. dutertrei nor N. incompta contained significant numbers of phytoplankton OTUs. We present an alternative view of their trophic interactions and discuss these results within the context of modelling global planktonic foraminiferal abundances in response to high-latitude climate change.
CB was supported on a Daphne Jackson Fellowship sponsored by Natural Environmental Research Council (www.nerc.ac.uk) and the University of Edinburgh via the Daphne Jackson Trust. Field collections were supported by the National Science Foundation (www.nsf.gov) grant number OCE-1261519 to ADR and JSF.
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZBird, ClareDarling, Kate F.Russell, Ann D.Fehrenbacher, Jennifer S.Davis, Catherine V.Free, AndrewNgwenya, Bryne T.Uncovering the complexities of trophic and metabolic interactions among microorganisms is essential for the understanding of marine biogeochemical cycling and modelling climate-driven ecosystem shifts. High-throughput DNA sequencing methods provide valuable tools for examining these complex interactions, although this remains challenging, as many microorganisms are difficult to isolate, identify and culture. We use two species of planktonic foraminifera from the climatically susceptible, palaeoceanographically important genus Neogloboquadrina, as ideal test microorganisms for the application of 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding. Neogloboquadrina dutertrei and Neogloboquadrina incompta were collected from the California Current and subjected to either 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, fluorescence microscopy, or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate their species-specific trophic interactions and potential symbiotic associations. 53–99% of 16S rRNA gene sequences recovered from two specimens of N. dutertrei were assigned to a single operational taxonomic unit (OTU) from a chloroplast of the phylum Stramenopile. TEM observations confirmed the presence of numerous intact coccoid algae within the host cell, consistent with algal symbionts. Based on sequence data and observed ultrastructure, we taxonomically assign the putative algal symbionts to Pelagophyceae and not Chrysophyceae, as previously reported in this species. In addition, our data shows that N. dutertrei feeds on protists within particulate organic matter (POM), but not on bacteria as a major food source. In total contrast, of OTUs recovered from three N. incompta specimens, 83–95% were assigned to bacterial classes Alteromonadales and Vibrionales of the order Gammaproteobacteria. TEM demonstrates that these bacteria are a food source, not putative symbionts. Contrary to the current view that non-spinose foraminifera are predominantly herbivorous, neither N. dutertrei nor N. incompta contained significant numbers of phytoplankton OTUs. We present an alternative view of their trophic interactions and discuss these results within the context of modelling global planktonic foraminiferal abundances in response to high-latitude climate change.STA-20 : an ABC-6 zeotype structure prepared by co-templating and solved via a hypothetical structure database and STEM-ADF imagingTurrina, AlessandroGarcia, RaquelWatts, Abigail E.Greer, Heather F.Bradley, JonathanZhou, WuzongCox, Paul A.Shannon, Mervyn D.Mayoral, AlvaroCasci, JohnWright, Paul A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126722018-02-07T00:15:58Z2017-03-14T00:00:00ZA microporous silicoaluminophosphate with a novel topology type, STA-20, has been prepared via a dual templating method using hexamethylene bisdiazabicyclooctane (diDABCO-C6) and trimethylamine as co-templates. Its structure has been solved and confirmed using a multi-technique approach that included the use of a hypothetical zeolite database to obtain a candidate starting structure, followed by scanning transmission electron microscopy with annular dark field imaging and Rietveld refinement. STA-20 is a member of the ABC-6 family of zeotype structures. The structure has trigonal symmetry, P-31c, with a = 13.15497(18) Å and c = 30.5833(4) Å in the calcined form. It has a 12-layer stacking sequence of 6-rings (6Rs), AABAABAACAAC(A), which contains single and double 6R units. As well as d6r, can and gme cages, STA-20 possesses the longest cage observed in an ordered ABC-6 material, giving a 3D-connected pore system limited by 8R windows. Models for the location of the templates within cages of the framework were obtained by combining elemental analysis, 13C MAS NMR, computer modelling and Rietveld refinement.
This work has been supported by Johnson Matthey PLC, UK. AEW acknowledges funding from an EPSRC/Johnson Matthey Industrial CASE PhD award EP/N50936X/1. We acknowledge Diamond Light Source for time on beamline I11 under the funded Proposal EE11830-1.
2017-03-14T00:00:00ZTurrina, AlessandroGarcia, RaquelWatts, Abigail E.Greer, Heather F.Bradley, JonathanZhou, WuzongCox, Paul A.Shannon, Mervyn D.Mayoral, AlvaroCasci, JohnWright, Paul A.A microporous silicoaluminophosphate with a novel topology type, STA-20, has been prepared via a dual templating method using hexamethylene bisdiazabicyclooctane (diDABCO-C6) and trimethylamine as co-templates. Its structure has been solved and confirmed using a multi-technique approach that included the use of a hypothetical zeolite database to obtain a candidate starting structure, followed by scanning transmission electron microscopy with annular dark field imaging and Rietveld refinement. STA-20 is a member of the ABC-6 family of zeotype structures. The structure has trigonal symmetry, P-31c, with a = 13.15497(18) Å and c = 30.5833(4) Å in the calcined form. It has a 12-layer stacking sequence of 6-rings (6Rs), AABAABAACAAC(A), which contains single and double 6R units. As well as d6r, can and gme cages, STA-20 possesses the longest cage observed in an ordered ABC-6 material, giving a 3D-connected pore system limited by 8R windows. Models for the location of the templates within cages of the framework were obtained by combining elemental analysis, 13C MAS NMR, computer modelling and Rietveld refinement.The extraordinary outburst in the massive protostellar system NGC6334I-MM1 : emergence of strong 6.7 GHz methanol masersHunter, T. R.Brogan, C. L.MacLeod, G. C.Cyganowski, C. J.Chibueze, J. O.Friesen, R.Hirota, T.Smits, D. P.Chandler, C. J.Indebetouw, R.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126712018-02-27T16:30:04Z2018-02-23T00:00:00ZWe report the first sub-arcsecond VLA imaging of 6 GHz continuum, methanol maser, and excited-state hydroxyl maser emission toward the massive protostellar cluster NGC6334I following the recent 2015 outburst in (sub)millimeter continuum toward MM1, the strongest (sub)millimeter source in the protocluster. In addition to detections toward the previously known 6.7 GHz Class II methanol maser sites in the hot core MM2 and the UCHII region MM3 (NGC6334F), we find new maser features toward several components of MM1, along with weaker features ∼1” north, west, and southwest of MM1, and toward the non-thermal radio continuum source CM2. None of these areas have heretofore exhibited Class II methanol maser emission in three decades of observations. The strongest MM1 masers trace a dust cavity, while no masers are seen toward the strongest dust sources MM1A, 1B and 1D. The locations of the masers are consistent with a combination of increased radiative pumping due to elevated dust grain temperature following the outburst, the presence of infrared photon propagation cavities, and the presence of high methanol column densities as indicated by ALMA images of thermal transitions. The non-thermal radio emission source CM2 (2” north of MM1) also exhibits new maser emission from the excited 6.035 and 6.030 GHz OH lines. Using the Zeeman effect, we measure a line-of-sight magnetic field of +0.5 to +3.7 mG toward CM2. In agreement with previous studies, we also detect numerous methanol and excited OH maser spots toward the UCHII region MM3, with predominantly negative line-of-sight magnetic field strengths of -2 to -5 mG and an intriguing south-north field reversal.
C. J. Cyganowski acknowledges support from the STFC (grant number ST/M001296/1).
2018-02-23T00:00:00ZHunter, T. R.Brogan, C. L.MacLeod, G. C.Cyganowski, C. J.Chibueze, J. O.Friesen, R.Hirota, T.Smits, D. P.Chandler, C. J.Indebetouw, R.We report the first sub-arcsecond VLA imaging of 6 GHz continuum, methanol maser, and excited-state hydroxyl maser emission toward the massive protostellar cluster NGC6334I following the recent 2015 outburst in (sub)millimeter continuum toward MM1, the strongest (sub)millimeter source in the protocluster. In addition to detections toward the previously known 6.7 GHz Class II methanol maser sites in the hot core MM2 and the UCHII region MM3 (NGC6334F), we find new maser features toward several components of MM1, along with weaker features ∼1” north, west, and southwest of MM1, and toward the non-thermal radio continuum source CM2. None of these areas have heretofore exhibited Class II methanol maser emission in three decades of observations. The strongest MM1 masers trace a dust cavity, while no masers are seen toward the strongest dust sources MM1A, 1B and 1D. The locations of the masers are consistent with a combination of increased radiative pumping due to elevated dust grain temperature following the outburst, the presence of infrared photon propagation cavities, and the presence of high methanol column densities as indicated by ALMA images of thermal transitions. The non-thermal radio emission source CM2 (2” north of MM1) also exhibits new maser emission from the excited 6.035 and 6.030 GHz OH lines. Using the Zeeman effect, we measure a line-of-sight magnetic field of +0.5 to +3.7 mG toward CM2. In agreement with previous studies, we also detect numerous methanol and excited OH maser spots toward the UCHII region MM3, with predominantly negative line-of-sight magnetic field strengths of -2 to -5 mG and an intriguing south-north field reversal.Reactions of dimethylether in single crystals of the silicoaluminophosphate STA-7 studied via Operando synchrotron infrared microspectroscopyHowe, Russell F.SuwardiyantoPrice, David J.Castro, MariaWright, Paul A.Greenaway, AlexFrogley, Mark D.Cinque, Gianfelicehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126702018-02-16T15:30:11Z2018-01-16T00:00:00ZSynchrotron infrared micro-spectroscopy has been applied to measure in situ the reaction of dimethylether in single crystals of the silicoaluminophosphate STA-7. The crystals are found to contain a uniform and homogeneous distribution of acidic hydroxyl groups. Dimethylether is hydrogen bonded to the hydroxyl groups at low temperatures, but evidence is found for dissociation to form surface methoxy groups above 473 K, and aromatic hydrocarbon pool species above 573 K. From time resolved infrared measurements coupled with MS analysis of evolved products it is concluded that alkene formation occurs via a direct mechanism from reaction of dimethylether with surface methoxy groups.
Financial support from the EPSRC Catalysis Hub (Suwardiyanto) and an Industrial CASE Award (EPSRC/BP Chemicals) (Price) are also acknowledged.
2018-01-16T00:00:00ZHowe, Russell F.SuwardiyantoPrice, David J.Castro, MariaWright, Paul A.Greenaway, AlexFrogley, Mark D.Cinque, GianfeliceSynchrotron infrared micro-spectroscopy has been applied to measure in situ the reaction of dimethylether in single crystals of the silicoaluminophosphate STA-7. The crystals are found to contain a uniform and homogeneous distribution of acidic hydroxyl groups. Dimethylether is hydrogen bonded to the hydroxyl groups at low temperatures, but evidence is found for dissociation to form surface methoxy groups above 473 K, and aromatic hydrocarbon pool species above 573 K. From time resolved infrared measurements coupled with MS analysis of evolved products it is concluded that alkene formation occurs via a direct mechanism from reaction of dimethylether with surface methoxy groups.High-resolution Imaging of Transiting Extrasolar Planetary systems (HITEP). II. Lucky Imaging results from 2015 and 2016Evans, D. F.Southworth, J.Smalley, B.Jørgensen, U. G.Dominik, M.Andersen, M. I.Bozza, V.Bramich, D. M.Burgdorf, M. J.Ciceri, S.D'Ago, G.Jaimes, R. FigueraGu, S. -H.Hinse, T. C.Henning, ThHundertmark, M.Kains, N.Kerins, E.Korhonen, H.Kokotanekova, R.Kuffmeier, M.Longa-Peña, P.Mancini, L.MacKenzie, J.Popovas, A.Rabus, M.Rahvar, S.Sajadian, S.Snodgrass, C.Skottfelt, J.Surdej, J.Tronsgaard, R.Unda-Sanzana, E.Essen, C. vonWang, Yi-BoWertz, O.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126692018-02-23T16:30:06Z2018-02-19T00:00:00ZContext. The formation and dynamical history of hot Jupiters is currently debated, with wide stellar binaries having been suggested as a potential formation pathway. Additionally, contaminating light from both binary companions and unassociated stars can significantly bias the results of planet characterisation studies, but can be corrected for if the properties of the contaminating star are known. Aims. We search for binary companions to known transiting exoplanet host stars, in order to determine the multiplicity properties of hot Jupiter host stars. We also characterise unassociated stars along the line of sight, allowing photometric and spectroscopic observations of the planetary system to be corrected for contaminating light. Methods. We analyse lucky imaging observations of 97 Southern hemisphere exoplanet host stars, using the Two Colour Instrument on the Danish 1.54m telescope. For each detected companion star, we determine flux ratios relative to the planet host star in two passbands, and measure the relative position of the companion. The probability of each companion being physically associated was determined using our two-colour photometry. Results. A catalogue of close companion stars is presented, including flux ratios, position measurements, and estimated companion star temperature. For companions that are potential binary companions, we review archival and catalogue data for further evidence. For WASP-77AB and WASP-85AB, we combine our data with historical measurements to determine the binary orbits, showing them to be moderately eccentric and inclined to the line of sight and planetary orbital axis. Combining our survey with the similar Friends of Hot Jupiters survey, we conclude that known hot Jupiter host stars show a deficit of high mass stellar companions compared to the field star population; however, this may be a result of the biases in detection and target selection by ground-based surveys.
2018-02-19T00:00:00ZEvans, D. F.Southworth, J.Smalley, B.Jørgensen, U. G.Dominik, M.Andersen, M. I.Bozza, V.Bramich, D. M.Burgdorf, M. J.Ciceri, S.D'Ago, G.Jaimes, R. FigueraGu, S. -H.Hinse, T. C.Henning, ThHundertmark, M.Kains, N.Kerins, E.Korhonen, H.Kokotanekova, R.Kuffmeier, M.Longa-Peña, P.Mancini, L.MacKenzie, J.Popovas, A.Rabus, M.Rahvar, S.Sajadian, S.Snodgrass, C.Skottfelt, J.Surdej, J.Tronsgaard, R.Unda-Sanzana, E.Essen, C. vonWang, Yi-BoWertz, O.Context. The formation and dynamical history of hot Jupiters is currently debated, with wide stellar binaries having been suggested as a potential formation pathway. Additionally, contaminating light from both binary companions and unassociated stars can significantly bias the results of planet characterisation studies, but can be corrected for if the properties of the contaminating star are known. Aims. We search for binary companions to known transiting exoplanet host stars, in order to determine the multiplicity properties of hot Jupiter host stars. We also characterise unassociated stars along the line of sight, allowing photometric and spectroscopic observations of the planetary system to be corrected for contaminating light. Methods. We analyse lucky imaging observations of 97 Southern hemisphere exoplanet host stars, using the Two Colour Instrument on the Danish 1.54m telescope. For each detected companion star, we determine flux ratios relative to the planet host star in two passbands, and measure the relative position of the companion. The probability of each companion being physically associated was determined using our two-colour photometry. Results. A catalogue of close companion stars is presented, including flux ratios, position measurements, and estimated companion star temperature. For companions that are potential binary companions, we review archival and catalogue data for further evidence. For WASP-77AB and WASP-85AB, we combine our data with historical measurements to determine the binary orbits, showing them to be moderately eccentric and inclined to the line of sight and planetary orbital axis. Combining our survey with the similar Friends of Hot Jupiters survey, we conclude that known hot Jupiter host stars show a deficit of high mass stellar companions compared to the field star population; however, this may be a result of the biases in detection and target selection by ground-based surveys.Stereochemical outcomes of C-F activation reactions of benzyl fluorideKeddie, Neil S.Champagne, Pier AlexandreDesroches, JustinePaquin, Jean-FrancoisO'Hagan, Davidhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126682018-02-11T01:36:13Z2018-01-09T00:00:00ZIn recent years, the highly polar C-F bond has been utilised in activation chemistry despite its low reactivity to traditional nucleophiles, when compared to other C-X halogen bonds. Paquin's group has reported extensive studies on the C-F activation of benzylic fluorides for nucleophilic substitutions and Friedel-Crafts reactions, using a range of hydrogen bond donors such as water, triols or hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as the activators. This study examines the stereointegrity of the C-F activation reaction through the use of an enantiopure isotopomer of benzyl fluoride to identify whether the reaction conditions favour a dissociative (SN1) or associative (SN2) pathway. [2H]-Isotopomer ratios in the reactions were assayed using the Courtieu 2H NMR method in a chiral liquid crystal (poly-γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) matrix and demonstrated that both associative and dissociative pathways operate to varying degrees, according to the nature of the nucleophile and the hydrogen bond donor.
NK and DOH acknowledge support from the University of St Andrews, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC, Grant No.: EP/L017911/1), and the EPSRC UK National Mass Spectrometry Facility at Swansea University. This work was also supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the FRQNT Centre in Green Chemistry and Catalysis (CGCC), and the Université Laval.
2018-01-09T00:00:00ZKeddie, Neil S.Champagne, Pier AlexandreDesroches, JustinePaquin, Jean-FrancoisO'Hagan, DavidIn recent years, the highly polar C-F bond has been utilised in activation chemistry despite its low reactivity to traditional nucleophiles, when compared to other C-X halogen bonds. Paquin's group has reported extensive studies on the C-F activation of benzylic fluorides for nucleophilic substitutions and Friedel-Crafts reactions, using a range of hydrogen bond donors such as water, triols or hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as the activators. This study examines the stereointegrity of the C-F activation reaction through the use of an enantiopure isotopomer of benzyl fluoride to identify whether the reaction conditions favour a dissociative (SN1) or associative (SN2) pathway. [2H]-Isotopomer ratios in the reactions were assayed using the Courtieu 2H NMR method in a chiral liquid crystal (poly-γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) matrix and demonstrated that both associative and dissociative pathways operate to varying degrees, according to the nature of the nucleophile and the hydrogen bond donor.Efficient detection of long dsRNA in vitro and in vivo using the dsRNA binding domain from FHV B2 proteinMonsion, BaptisteIncarbone, MarcoHleibieh, KamalPoignavent, VianneyGhannam, AhmedDunoyer, PatriceDaeffler, LaurentTilsner, JensRitzenthaler, Christophehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126672018-02-06T00:16:02Z2018-02-01T00:00:00ZDouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA) plays essential functions in many biological processes, including the activation of innate immune responses and RNA interference. dsRNA also represents the genetic entity of some viruses and is a hallmark of infections by positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses. Methods for detecting dsRNA rely essentially on immunological approaches and their use is often limited to in vitro applications, although recent developments have allowed the visualization of dsRNA in vivo. Here, we report the sensitive and rapid detection of long dsRNA both in vitro and in vivo using the dsRNA binding domain of the B2 protein from Flock house virus. In vitro, we adapted the system for the detection of dsRNA either enzymatically by northwestern blotting or by direct fluorescence labeling on fixed samples. In vivo, we produced stable transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana lines allowing the visualization of dsRNA by fluorescence microscopy. Using these techniques, we were able to discriminate healthy and positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus-infected material in plants and insect cells. In N. benthamiana, our system proved to be very potent for the spatio-temporal visualization of replicative RNA intermediates of a broad range of positive-sense RNA viruses, including high- vs. low-copy number viruses.
BM benefited from an IdEx postdoctoral fellowship from the Université de Strasbourg. Financial support to MI was provided in part by the INTERREG V Upper Rhine program Vitifutur, Transcending borders with every project. Work in the JT laboratory is funded by the U.K. Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BB/M007200/1).
2018-02-01T00:00:00ZMonsion, BaptisteIncarbone, MarcoHleibieh, KamalPoignavent, VianneyGhannam, AhmedDunoyer, PatriceDaeffler, LaurentTilsner, JensRitzenthaler, ChristopheDouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA) plays essential functions in many biological processes, including the activation of innate immune responses and RNA interference. dsRNA also represents the genetic entity of some viruses and is a hallmark of infections by positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses. Methods for detecting dsRNA rely essentially on immunological approaches and their use is often limited to in vitro applications, although recent developments have allowed the visualization of dsRNA in vivo. Here, we report the sensitive and rapid detection of long dsRNA both in vitro and in vivo using the dsRNA binding domain of the B2 protein from Flock house virus. In vitro, we adapted the system for the detection of dsRNA either enzymatically by northwestern blotting or by direct fluorescence labeling on fixed samples. In vivo, we produced stable transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana lines allowing the visualization of dsRNA by fluorescence microscopy. Using these techniques, we were able to discriminate healthy and positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus-infected material in plants and insect cells. In N. benthamiana, our system proved to be very potent for the spatio-temporal visualization of replicative RNA intermediates of a broad range of positive-sense RNA viruses, including high- vs. low-copy number viruses.Spinel-based coatings for metal supported solid oxide fuel cellsStefan, ElenaNeagu, DragosTullmar, Peter BlennowPersson, Åsa HelenSudireddy, Bhaskar R.Miller, DavidChen, MingIrvine, Johnhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126662018-02-06T00:15:59Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZMetal supports and metal supported half cells developed at DTU are used for the study of a solution infiltration approach to form protective coatings on porous metal scaffolds. The metal particles in the anode layer, and sometimes even in the support may undergo oxidation in realistic operating conditions leading to severe cell degradation. Here, a controlled oxidation of the porous metal substrate and infiltration of Mn and/or Ce nitrate solutions are applied for in situ formation of protective coatings. Our approach consists of scavenging the FeCr oxides formed during the controlled oxidation into a continuous and well adhered coating. The effectiveness of coatings is the result of composition and structure, but also of the microstructure and surface characteristics of the metal scaffolds.
The authors thank European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Technology initiative under grant agreement no. [FCH JU-GA 278257] 10 for financial support.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZStefan, ElenaNeagu, DragosTullmar, Peter BlennowPersson, Åsa HelenSudireddy, Bhaskar R.Miller, DavidChen, MingIrvine, JohnMetal supports and metal supported half cells developed at DTU are used for the study of a solution infiltration approach to form protective coatings on porous metal scaffolds. The metal particles in the anode layer, and sometimes even in the support may undergo oxidation in realistic operating conditions leading to severe cell degradation. Here, a controlled oxidation of the porous metal substrate and infiltration of Mn and/or Ce nitrate solutions are applied for in situ formation of protective coatings. Our approach consists of scavenging the FeCr oxides formed during the controlled oxidation into a continuous and well adhered coating. The effectiveness of coatings is the result of composition and structure, but also of the microstructure and surface characteristics of the metal scaffolds.Laurentia-Baltica-Amazonia relations during Rodinia assemblyCawood, Peter A.Pisarevsky, Sergei A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126652018-02-05T00:15:52Z2017-05-01T00:00:00ZLaurentia, Baltica and Amazonia are key building blocks of the end Mesoproterozoic to early Neoproterozoic supercontinent Rodinia. Integration of available data sets enables development of a dynamic model for the Proterozoic interaction of these continental fragments in which Amazonian collision with Laurentia is linked to rifting and rotation of Baltica from Laurentia to collide with Amazonia’s northern margin. The geological record of the three blocks indicates a long history extending through the Paleoproterozoic and Mesoproterozoic involving continental growth onto Archean cratonic cores through convergent plate interaction and accretionary orogenesis. This history requires the existence of a long lived and probably large oceanic tract outboard of these continental fragments; the Mirovoi Ocean. Prior to 1265 Ma, Laurentia and Baltica formed a single tectonic plate. Sometime after this, but prior to 990 Ma, these blocks broke into two plates through opening of the triangular shaped Asgard Sea between northeast Laurentia and northern Baltica. After opening of the Asgard Sea the southern margin of Baltica lay at right-angles to east Laurentia. Thus, during final closure of the Mirovoi Ocean and collisional orogenesis, the western margin of Amazonia collided with the east Laurentian margin while the southern margin of Baltica collided with the northern margin of Amazonia. Laurentia, Baltica and Amazonia maintained this configuration until the final breakup of Rodinia with the opening of the Iapetus Ocean at the end of the Neoproterozoic.
PAC acknowledges support from the Australian Research Council grant FL160100168 and SAP was supported by Australian Research Council Australian Laureate Fellowship grant to Z.-X. Li.
2017-05-01T00:00:00ZCawood, Peter A.Pisarevsky, Sergei A.Laurentia, Baltica and Amazonia are key building blocks of the end Mesoproterozoic to early Neoproterozoic supercontinent Rodinia. Integration of available data sets enables development of a dynamic model for the Proterozoic interaction of these continental fragments in which Amazonian collision with Laurentia is linked to rifting and rotation of Baltica from Laurentia to collide with Amazonia’s northern margin. The geological record of the three blocks indicates a long history extending through the Paleoproterozoic and Mesoproterozoic involving continental growth onto Archean cratonic cores through convergent plate interaction and accretionary orogenesis. This history requires the existence of a long lived and probably large oceanic tract outboard of these continental fragments; the Mirovoi Ocean. Prior to 1265 Ma, Laurentia and Baltica formed a single tectonic plate. Sometime after this, but prior to 990 Ma, these blocks broke into two plates through opening of the triangular shaped Asgard Sea between northeast Laurentia and northern Baltica. After opening of the Asgard Sea the southern margin of Baltica lay at right-angles to east Laurentia. Thus, during final closure of the Mirovoi Ocean and collisional orogenesis, the western margin of Amazonia collided with the east Laurentian margin while the southern margin of Baltica collided with the northern margin of Amazonia. Laurentia, Baltica and Amazonia maintained this configuration until the final breakup of Rodinia with the opening of the Iapetus Ocean at the end of the Neoproterozoic.Role of phosphatidylserine synthase in shaping the phospholipidome of Candida albicansCassilly, Chelsi D.Farmer, Abigail T.Montedonico, Anthony E.Smith, Terry K.Campagna, Shawn R.Reynolds, Todd B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126642018-03-04T02:30:25Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZPhosphatidylserine (PS) synthase (Cho1p) and the PS decarboxylase enzymes (Psd1p and Psd2p), which synthesize PS and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), respectively, are crucial for Candida albicans virulence. Mutations that disrupt these enzymes compromise virulence. These enzymes are part of the cytidine diphosphate-diacylglycerol pathway (i.e. de novo pathway) for phospholipid synthesis. Understanding how losses of PS and/or PE synthesis pathways affect the phospholipidome of Candida is important for fully understanding how these enzymes impact virulence. The cho1Δ/Δ and psd1Δ/Δ psd2Δ/Δ mutations cause similar changes in levels of phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and PS. However, only slight changes were seen in PE and phosphatidylcholine (PC). This finding suggests that the alternative mechanism for making PE and PC, the Kennedy pathway, can compensate for loss of the de novo synthesis pathway. Candida albicans Cho1p, the lipid biosynthetic enzyme with the most potential as a drug target, has been biochemically characterized, and analysis of its substrate specificity and kinetics reveal that these are similar to those previously published for Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cho1p.
This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health NIH R01AL105690.
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZCassilly, Chelsi D.Farmer, Abigail T.Montedonico, Anthony E.Smith, Terry K.Campagna, Shawn R.Reynolds, Todd B.Phosphatidylserine (PS) synthase (Cho1p) and the PS decarboxylase enzymes (Psd1p and Psd2p), which synthesize PS and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), respectively, are crucial for Candida albicans virulence. Mutations that disrupt these enzymes compromise virulence. These enzymes are part of the cytidine diphosphate-diacylglycerol pathway (i.e. de novo pathway) for phospholipid synthesis. Understanding how losses of PS and/or PE synthesis pathways affect the phospholipidome of Candida is important for fully understanding how these enzymes impact virulence. The cho1Δ/Δ and psd1Δ/Δ psd2Δ/Δ mutations cause similar changes in levels of phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and PS. However, only slight changes were seen in PE and phosphatidylcholine (PC). This finding suggests that the alternative mechanism for making PE and PC, the Kennedy pathway, can compensate for loss of the de novo synthesis pathway. Candida albicans Cho1p, the lipid biosynthetic enzyme with the most potential as a drug target, has been biochemically characterized, and analysis of its substrate specificity and kinetics reveal that these are similar to those previously published for Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cho1p.Penalized nonparametric scalar-on-function regression via principal coordinatesReiss, Philip T.Miller, David L.Wu, Pei ShienHua, Wen Yuhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126632018-02-04T00:16:01Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZA number of classical approaches to nonparametric regression have recently been extended to the case of functional predictors. This article introduces a new method of this type, which extends intermediate-rank penalized smoothing to scalar-on-function regression. In the proposed method, which we call principal coordinate ridge regression, one regresses the response on leading principal coordinates defined by a relevant distance among the functional predictors, while applying a ridge penalty. Our publicly available implementation, based on generalized additive modeling software, allows for fast optimal tuning parameter selection and for extensions to multiple functional predictors, exponential family-valued responses, and mixed-effects models. In an application to signature verification data, principal coordinate ridge regression, with dynamic time warping distance used to define the principal coordinates, is shown to outperform a functional generalized linear model. Supplementary materials for this article are available online.
Philip Reiss, Pei-Shien Wu, and Wen-Yu Hua gratefully acknowledge the support of the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (grant 1R01MH095836-01A1).
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZReiss, Philip T.Miller, David L.Wu, Pei ShienHua, Wen YuA number of classical approaches to nonparametric regression have recently been extended to the case of functional predictors. This article introduces a new method of this type, which extends intermediate-rank penalized smoothing to scalar-on-function regression. In the proposed method, which we call principal coordinate ridge regression, one regresses the response on leading principal coordinates defined by a relevant distance among the functional predictors, while applying a ridge penalty. Our publicly available implementation, based on generalized additive modeling software, allows for fast optimal tuning parameter selection and for extensions to multiple functional predictors, exponential family-valued responses, and mixed-effects models. In an application to signature verification data, principal coordinate ridge regression, with dynamic time warping distance used to define the principal coordinates, is shown to outperform a functional generalized linear model. Supplementary materials for this article are available online.Interactive simulations to support quantum mechanics instruction for chemistry studentsKohnle, AntjeBenfield, CoryHähner, GeorgPaetkau, Markhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126622018-02-04T00:15:56Z2017-03-14T00:00:00ZThe QuVis Quantum Mechanics Visualization Project provides freely-available research based interactive simulations with accompanying activities for the teaching and learning of quantum mechanics across a wide range of topics and levels. This article gives an overview of some of the simulations and describes their use in an introductory physical chemistry university course, where simulations were implemented as a pre-lab assignment, as lecture demonstrations, and as homework problems.
We gratefully acknowledge funding from the UK Higher Education Academy, the UK Institute of Physics and the University of St Andrews for simulation development and evaluation.
2017-03-14T00:00:00ZKohnle, AntjeBenfield, CoryHähner, GeorgPaetkau, MarkThe QuVis Quantum Mechanics Visualization Project provides freely-available research based interactive simulations with accompanying activities for the teaching and learning of quantum mechanics across a wide range of topics and levels. This article gives an overview of some of the simulations and describes their use in an introductory physical chemistry university course, where simulations were implemented as a pre-lab assignment, as lecture demonstrations, and as homework problems.17ß-Estradiol protects against the effects of a high fat diet on cardiac glucose, lipid and nitric oxide metabolism in ratsZafirovic, SonjaObradovic, MilanSudar-Milovanovic, EminaJovanovic, AleksandraStanimirovic, JulijanaStewart, Alan J.Pitt, Samantha J.Isenovic, Esma R.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126612018-02-04T00:16:08Z2017-05-05T00:00:00ZThe aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo effects of estradiol (E2) on myocardial metabolism and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression/activity in obese rats. Male Wistar rats were fed with a normal or a high fat (HF) diet (42% fat) for 10 weeks. Half of the HF fed rats were treated with a single dose of E2 while the other half were placebo-treated. 24h after treatment animals were sacrificed. E2 reduced cardiac free fatty acid (FFA) (p<0.05), L-arginine (p<0.01), iNOS mRNA (p<0.01), and protein (p<0.05) levels and translocation of the FFA transporter (CD36) (p<0.01) to the plasma membrane (PM) in HF fed rats. In contrast, Akt phosphorylation at Thr308 (p<0.05) and translocation of the glucose transporter GLUT4 (p<0.05) to the PM increased after E2 tretment in HF rats. Our results indicate that E2 acts via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to partially protect myocardial metabolism by attenuating the detrimental effects of increased iNOS expression/activity in HF fed rats.
This work is supported by the grant No.173033 (to E.R.I.) from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Republic of Serbia.
2017-05-05T00:00:00ZZafirovic, SonjaObradovic, MilanSudar-Milovanovic, EminaJovanovic, AleksandraStanimirovic, JulijanaStewart, Alan J.Pitt, Samantha J.Isenovic, Esma R.The aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo effects of estradiol (E2) on myocardial metabolism and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression/activity in obese rats. Male Wistar rats were fed with a normal or a high fat (HF) diet (42% fat) for 10 weeks. Half of the HF fed rats were treated with a single dose of E2 while the other half were placebo-treated. 24h after treatment animals were sacrificed. E2 reduced cardiac free fatty acid (FFA) (p<0.05), L-arginine (p<0.01), iNOS mRNA (p<0.01), and protein (p<0.05) levels and translocation of the FFA transporter (CD36) (p<0.01) to the plasma membrane (PM) in HF fed rats. In contrast, Akt phosphorylation at Thr308 (p<0.05) and translocation of the glucose transporter GLUT4 (p<0.05) to the PM increased after E2 tretment in HF rats. Our results indicate that E2 acts via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to partially protect myocardial metabolism by attenuating the detrimental effects of increased iNOS expression/activity in HF fed rats.A continued role for signalling functions in the early evolution of feathersRuxton, Graeme D.Persons IV, W. ScottCurrie, Philip J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126602018-02-04T00:16:08Z2017-03-01T00:00:00ZPersons and Currie (2015) argued against either flight, thermoregulation, or signalling as a functional benefit driving the earliest evolution of feathers; rather, they favoured simple feathers having an initial tactile sensory function, which changed to a thermoregulatory function as density increased. Here, we explore the relative merits of early simple feathers that may have originated as tactile sensors progressing instead towards a signalling, rather than (or in addition to), a thermoregulatory function. We suggest that signalling could act in concert with a sensory function more naturally than could thermoregulation. As such, the dismissal of a possible signalling function and the presumption that an initial sensory function led directly to a thermoregulatory function (implicit in the title “bristles before down”) are premature.
2017-03-01T00:00:00ZRuxton, Graeme D.Persons IV, W. ScottCurrie, Philip J.Persons and Currie (2015) argued against either flight, thermoregulation, or signalling as a functional benefit driving the earliest evolution of feathers; rather, they favoured simple feathers having an initial tactile sensory function, which changed to a thermoregulatory function as density increased. Here, we explore the relative merits of early simple feathers that may have originated as tactile sensors progressing instead towards a signalling, rather than (or in addition to), a thermoregulatory function. We suggest that signalling could act in concert with a sensory function more naturally than could thermoregulation. As such, the dismissal of a possible signalling function and the presumption that an initial sensory function led directly to a thermoregulatory function (implicit in the title “bristles before down”) are premature.Landscape-scale effects of single- and multiple small wind turbines on bat activityMinderman, JeroenGillis, MairiDaly, HelenPark, Kirstyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126592018-02-04T00:16:05Z2017-10-01T00:00:00ZWhile the effects of wind farms on bats are widely studied, effects of small wind turbines (SWTs, here <25m hub height) remain understudied. SWTs are installed in a wider range of habitats compared to wind farms and their effect on wildlife can therefore be different. While single SWTs can adversely affect bat activity in their immediate vicinity, they are often installed in clusters, and to date no data are available on whether installation of more than one turbine increases the likelihood of adverse effects on bats. Here, we test whether (1) SWT installations affect the activity of two species of bat (the common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus and soprano pipistrelle P. pygmaeus) on a landscape scale (here defined as up to 500m from SWTs) and (2) such an effect is stronger when multiple (2-4) SWTs are installed. We show that, after accounting for potentially confounding effects (e.g. variation in habitat and weather), (1) mean P. pipistrellus activity is lower at 0-100m compared to 200-500m from SWTs, and (2) the effect on P. pygmaeus activity tends to be similar and stronger in multiple SWT sites, although evidence for the latter is limited. We conclude that in some cases, adverse effects of SWTs on bat activity may be measurable over longer spatial scales (within 100m) than previously thought. However, combined with earlier findings, it is likely that the bulk of such effects operate within relative close proximity of SWTs (<25m). Moreover, although these effects may be species-specific, with e.g. P. pygmaeus potentially more strongly affected by multiple SWT sites, this requires further data. These findings are highly relevant to decision-making aimed at minimizing any adverse effects of wind turbines, specifically single- vs. multiple SWT developments, on wildlife.
Funding: University of Stirling Impact Fellowship to JM.
2017-10-01T00:00:00ZMinderman, JeroenGillis, MairiDaly, HelenPark, KirstyWhile the effects of wind farms on bats are widely studied, effects of small wind turbines (SWTs, here <25m hub height) remain understudied. SWTs are installed in a wider range of habitats compared to wind farms and their effect on wildlife can therefore be different. While single SWTs can adversely affect bat activity in their immediate vicinity, they are often installed in clusters, and to date no data are available on whether installation of more than one turbine increases the likelihood of adverse effects on bats. Here, we test whether (1) SWT installations affect the activity of two species of bat (the common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus and soprano pipistrelle P. pygmaeus) on a landscape scale (here defined as up to 500m from SWTs) and (2) such an effect is stronger when multiple (2-4) SWTs are installed. We show that, after accounting for potentially confounding effects (e.g. variation in habitat and weather), (1) mean P. pipistrellus activity is lower at 0-100m compared to 200-500m from SWTs, and (2) the effect on P. pygmaeus activity tends to be similar and stronger in multiple SWT sites, although evidence for the latter is limited. We conclude that in some cases, adverse effects of SWTs on bat activity may be measurable over longer spatial scales (within 100m) than previously thought. However, combined with earlier findings, it is likely that the bulk of such effects operate within relative close proximity of SWTs (<25m). Moreover, although these effects may be species-specific, with e.g. P. pygmaeus potentially more strongly affected by multiple SWT sites, this requires further data. These findings are highly relevant to decision-making aimed at minimizing any adverse effects of wind turbines, specifically single- vs. multiple SWT developments, on wildlife.Slow and fast escape for open intermittent mapsDemers, Mark F.Todd, Mikehttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126582018-02-04T00:16:06Z2017-04-01T00:00:00ZIf a system mixes too slowly, putting a hole in it can completely destroy the richness of the dynamics. Here we study this instability for a class of intermittent maps with a family of slowly mixing measures. We show that there are three regimes:(1) standard hyperbolic-like behavior where the rate of mixing is faster than the rate of escape through the hole, there is a unique limiting absolutely continuous conditionally invariant measure (accim) and there is a complete thermodynamic description of the dynamics on the survivor set; (2) an intermediate regime, where the rate of mixing and escape through the hole coincide, limiting accims exist, but much of the thermodynamic picture breaks down; (3) a subexponentially mixing regime where the slow mixing means that mass simply accumulates on the parabolic fixed point. We give a complete picture of the transitions and stability properties (in the size of the hole and as we move through the family) in this class of open systems. In particular, we are able to recover a form of stability in the third regime above via the dynamics on the survivor set, even when no limiting accim exists.
MD was partially supported by NSF grant DMS 1362420. This project was started as part of an RiGs grant through ICMS, Scotland.
2017-04-01T00:00:00ZDemers, Mark F.Todd, MikeIf a system mixes too slowly, putting a hole in it can completely destroy the richness of the dynamics. Here we study this instability for a class of intermittent maps with a family of slowly mixing measures. We show that there are three regimes:(1) standard hyperbolic-like behavior where the rate of mixing is faster than the rate of escape through the hole, there is a unique limiting absolutely continuous conditionally invariant measure (accim) and there is a complete thermodynamic description of the dynamics on the survivor set; (2) an intermediate regime, where the rate of mixing and escape through the hole coincide, limiting accims exist, but much of the thermodynamic picture breaks down; (3) a subexponentially mixing regime where the slow mixing means that mass simply accumulates on the parabolic fixed point. We give a complete picture of the transitions and stability properties (in the size of the hole and as we move through the family) in this class of open systems. In particular, we are able to recover a form of stability in the third regime above via the dynamics on the survivor set, even when no limiting accim exists.Staffin ecomuseum and the cultural landscape in ScotlandBrown, Karen Elizabethhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126572018-03-11T00:34:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZBrown, Karen ElizabethK2-140b - an eccentric 6.57 d transiting hot Jupiter in VirgoGiles, H. A. C.Bayliss, D.Espinoza, N.Brahm, R.Blanco-Cuaresma, S.Shporer, A.Armstrong, D.Lovis, C.Udry, S.Bouchy, F.Marmier, M.Jordán, A.Bento, J.Cameron, A. CollierSefako, R.Cochran, W. D.Rojas, F.Rabus, M.Jenkins, J. S.Jones, M.Pantoja, B.Soto, M.Jensen-Clem, R.Duev, D. A.Salama, M.Riddle, R.Baranec, C.Law, N. M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126562018-03-11T00:33:32Z2018-04-01T00:00:00ZWe present the discovery of K2-140b, a P = 6.57 d Jupiter-mass (MP = 1.019 ± 0.070MJup) planet transiting a V = 12.5 (G5-spectral type) star in an eccentric orbit (e = 0.120^{+0.056}_{-0.046}) detected using a combination of K2 photometry and ground-based observations. With a radius of 1.095 ± 0.018RJup, the planet has a bulk density of 0.726 ± 0.062ρJup. The host star has a [Fe/H] of 0.12 ± 0.045,and from the K2 light curve, we find a rotation period for the star of 16.3 ± 0.1d. This discovery is the 9th hot Jupiter from K2 and highlights K2's ability to detect transiting giant planets at periods slightly longer than traditional, ground-based surveys. This planet is slightly inflated, but much less than others with similar incident fluxes. These are of interest for investigating the inflation mechanism of hot Jupiters.
2018-04-01T00:00:00ZGiles, H. A. C.Bayliss, D.Espinoza, N.Brahm, R.Blanco-Cuaresma, S.Shporer, A.Armstrong, D.Lovis, C.Udry, S.Bouchy, F.Marmier, M.Jordán, A.Bento, J.Cameron, A. CollierSefako, R.Cochran, W. D.Rojas, F.Rabus, M.Jenkins, J. S.Jones, M.Pantoja, B.Soto, M.Jensen-Clem, R.Duev, D. A.Salama, M.Riddle, R.Baranec, C.Law, N. M.We present the discovery of K2-140b, a P = 6.57 d Jupiter-mass (MP = 1.019 ± 0.070MJup) planet transiting a V = 12.5 (G5-spectral type) star in an eccentric orbit (e = 0.120^{+0.056}_{-0.046}) detected using a combination of K2 photometry and ground-based observations. With a radius of 1.095 ± 0.018RJup, the planet has a bulk density of 0.726 ± 0.062ρJup. The host star has a [Fe/H] of 0.12 ± 0.045,and from the K2 light curve, we find a rotation period for the star of 16.3 ± 0.1d. This discovery is the 9th hot Jupiter from K2 and highlights K2's ability to detect transiting giant planets at periods slightly longer than traditional, ground-based surveys. This planet is slightly inflated, but much less than others with similar incident fluxes. These are of interest for investigating the inflation mechanism of hot Jupiters.Imitation of novel conspecific and human speech sounds in the killer whale (Orcinus orca)Abramson, José Z.Hernández-Lloreda, VictoriaGarcía, LinoColmenares, FernandoAboitiz, FranciscoCall, Josephttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126552018-02-18T01:39:00Z2018-01-31T00:00:00ZVocal imitation is a hallmark of human spoken language, which, along with other advanced cognitive skills, has fuelled the evolution of human culture. Comparative evidence has revealed that although the ability to copy sounds from conspecifics is mostly uniquely human among primates, a few distantly related taxa of birds and mammals have also independently evolved this capacity. Remarkably, field observations of killer whales have documented the existence of group-differentiated vocal dialects that are often referred to as traditions or cultures and are hypothesized to be acquired non-genetically. Here we use a -Do as I do- paradigm to study the abilities of a killer whale to imitate novel sounds uttered by conspecific (vocal imitative learning) and human models (vocal mimicry). We found that the subject made recognizable copies of all familiar and novel conspecific and human sounds tested and did so relatively quickly (most during the first 10 trials and three in the first attempt). Our results lend support to the hypothesis that the vocal variants observed in natural populations of this species can be socially learned by imitation. The capacity for vocal imitation shown in this study may scaffold the natural vocal traditions of killer whales in the wild.
This project was conducted at the Marineland Aquarium Antibes, France and supported by a Postdoctoral Scholarship FONDECYT Nº 3140580 to J.Z. Abramson. This study was partly funded by project grants PSI2011-29016-C02-01, PSI2014-51890-C2-1-P (MINECO, Spain) and UCM-BSCH GR3/14-940813 (Universidad Complutense de Madrid y Banco Santander Central Hispano) to F. Colmenares.
2018-01-31T00:00:00ZAbramson, José Z.Hernández-Lloreda, VictoriaGarcía, LinoColmenares, FernandoAboitiz, FranciscoCall, JosepVocal imitation is a hallmark of human spoken language, which, along with other advanced cognitive skills, has fuelled the evolution of human culture. Comparative evidence has revealed that although the ability to copy sounds from conspecifics is mostly uniquely human among primates, a few distantly related taxa of birds and mammals have also independently evolved this capacity. Remarkably, field observations of killer whales have documented the existence of group-differentiated vocal dialects that are often referred to as traditions or cultures and are hypothesized to be acquired non-genetically. Here we use a -Do as I do- paradigm to study the abilities of a killer whale to imitate novel sounds uttered by conspecific (vocal imitative learning) and human models (vocal mimicry). We found that the subject made recognizable copies of all familiar and novel conspecific and human sounds tested and did so relatively quickly (most during the first 10 trials and three in the first attempt). Our results lend support to the hypothesis that the vocal variants observed in natural populations of this species can be socially learned by imitation. The capacity for vocal imitation shown in this study may scaffold the natural vocal traditions of killer whales in the wild.State responses to victims of terrorism needs in SpainArgomaniz, Javierhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126532018-02-03T00:16:07Z2015-02-01T00:00:00ZThe chapter studies the provision and delivery of services to Spanish victims of terrorism by state entities. It also provides a historical account of the evolution of the system whilst taking into consideration the impact resulting from the dynamics of violence and the evolving social and political context. The analysis addresses the absence of institutional support in the 1970s and 1980s and notes how the feeling of neglect that many victims felt during this period led to the establishment of the first victims associations in the country. It then analyses the institutionalisation of a support system in the form of statutory bodies and specialised legislation during the 1990s before mapping out the regime now in place in both Spain and the Basque Country. The current framework is constituted by two main elements: the day-to-day work of statutory bodies and the rights protected and needs addressed by legislative initiatives. Within this framework, the most important instruments have been put in place by the central government and the Basque regional administration.
2015-02-01T00:00:00ZArgomaniz, JavierThe chapter studies the provision and delivery of services to Spanish victims of terrorism by state entities. It also provides a historical account of the evolution of the system whilst taking into consideration the impact resulting from the dynamics of violence and the evolving social and political context. The analysis addresses the absence of institutional support in the 1970s and 1980s and notes how the feeling of neglect that many victims felt during this period led to the establishment of the first victims associations in the country. It then analyses the institutionalisation of a support system in the form of statutory bodies and specialised legislation during the 1990s before mapping out the regime now in place in both Spain and the Basque Country. The current framework is constituted by two main elements: the day-to-day work of statutory bodies and the rights protected and needs addressed by legislative initiatives. Within this framework, the most important instruments have been put in place by the central government and the Basque regional administration.Wild hummingbirds can use the geometry of a flower arrayHornsby, Mark A. W.Healy, Susan D.Hurly, T. Andrewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126522018-03-18T01:39:11Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZAnimals use cues from their environment to orient in space and to navigate their surroundings. Geometry is a cue whose informational content may originate from the metric properties of a given environment, and its use has been demonstrated in the laboratory in nearly every species of animal tested. However, it is not clear whether geometric information, used by animals typically tested in small, rectangular boxes, is directly relevant to animals in their natural environment. Here we present the first data that confirm the use of geometric cues by a free-living animal in the wild. We trained rufous hummingbirds to visit a rectangular array of four artificial flowers, one of which was rewarded. In some trials a conspicuous landmark cued the reward. Following array translocation and rotation, we presented hummingbirds with three tests. When trained and tested with the landmark, or when trained and tested without it, hummingbirds failed to show geometric learning. However, when trained with a landmark but tested without it, hummingbirds produced the classic geometric response, showing that they had learned the geometric relationships (distance and direction) of several non-reward visual elements of the environment. While it remains that the use of geometry to relocate a reward may be an experimental artefact, it is one cue that is not confined to the laboratory.
This research was supported in part by ASAB to SDH, and a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Discovery Grant to TAH.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZHornsby, Mark A. W.Healy, Susan D.Hurly, T. AndrewAnimals use cues from their environment to orient in space and to navigate their surroundings. Geometry is a cue whose informational content may originate from the metric properties of a given environment, and its use has been demonstrated in the laboratory in nearly every species of animal tested. However, it is not clear whether geometric information, used by animals typically tested in small, rectangular boxes, is directly relevant to animals in their natural environment. Here we present the first data that confirm the use of geometric cues by a free-living animal in the wild. We trained rufous hummingbirds to visit a rectangular array of four artificial flowers, one of which was rewarded. In some trials a conspicuous landmark cued the reward. Following array translocation and rotation, we presented hummingbirds with three tests. When trained and tested with the landmark, or when trained and tested without it, hummingbirds failed to show geometric learning. However, when trained with a landmark but tested without it, hummingbirds produced the classic geometric response, showing that they had learned the geometric relationships (distance and direction) of several non-reward visual elements of the environment. While it remains that the use of geometry to relocate a reward may be an experimental artefact, it is one cue that is not confined to the laboratory.Exciton diffusion length and charge extraction yield in organic bilayer solar cellsSiegmund, BernhardSajjad, Muhammad TariqWidmer, JohannesRay, DebduttaKoerner, ChristianRiede, MoritzLeo, KarlSamuel, Ifor David WilliamVandewal, Koenhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126512018-02-03T00:15:52Z2017-03-28T00:00:00ZA method for resolving the diffusion length of excitons and the extraction yield of charge carriers is presented based on the performance of organic bilayer solar cells and careful modeling. The technique uses a simultaneous variation of the absorber thickness and the excitation wavelength. Rigorously differing solar cell structures as well as independent photoluminescence quenching measurements give consistent results.
The authors thank the German BMBF for funding within the scope of the projects InnoProfile 2.2 (03IPT602X) and MEDOS (03EK3503A) as well as the European Commission within the scope of the Career Integration Grant (FP7, MSCA, 630864). I.D.W.S. and M.T.S. acknowledge support from the European Research Council (grant number 321305) and from EPSRC (grant number EP/L017008/1). I.D.W.S. also acknowledges a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award. K.L. is a fellow of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR). The research data supporting this publication can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.17630/af263bfb-620c-40a8-9929-86658e5187d3
2017-03-28T00:00:00ZSiegmund, BernhardSajjad, Muhammad TariqWidmer, JohannesRay, DebduttaKoerner, ChristianRiede, MoritzLeo, KarlSamuel, Ifor David WilliamVandewal, KoenA method for resolving the diffusion length of excitons and the extraction yield of charge carriers is presented based on the performance of organic bilayer solar cells and careful modeling. The technique uses a simultaneous variation of the absorber thickness and the excitation wavelength. Rigorously differing solar cell structures as well as independent photoluminescence quenching measurements give consistent results.Early use of corticosteroids in infants with a clinical diagnosis of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia in Malawi : a double blinded, randomised clinical trialNewberry, LauraO'Hare, BernadetteKennedy, NeilSelman, AndrewOmar, SofiaDawson, PamelaStevenson, KimNishihara, YoLissauer, SamanthaMolyneux, Elizabethhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126502018-02-03T00:15:51Z2017-01-01T00:00:00ZBackground: Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) is the most common opportunistic infection in infants with vertically acquired HIV infection and the most common cause ofdeath in HIV-infected infants. Objectives: To determine whether early administration of adjuvant corticosteroids in addition to standard treatment reduces mortality in infants with vertically acquired HIV and clinically diagnosed PJP when co-infection with cytomegalovirus and other pathogens cannot be excluded. Methods: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of adjuvant prednisolone treatment in HIV-exposed infants aged 2–6 months admitted to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre who were diagnosed clinically with PJP was performed. All recruited infants were HIV-exposed, and the HIV status of the infant was confirmed by DNA-PCR. HIV exposed and infected infants as well as HIV-exposed but non-infected infants were included in the study. The protocol provided for the addition of prednisolone to the treatment at 48 hours if there was clinical deterioration or an independent indication for corticosteroid therapy in any patient not receiving it. Oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) therapy and full supportive treatment were provided according to established guidelines. Primary outcomes for all patients included survival to hospital discharge and 6-month post-discharge survival. Results: It was planned to enroll 200 patients but the trial was stopped early because of recruitment difficulties and a statistically significant result on interim analysis. Seventy eight infants were enrolled between April 2012 and August 2014; 36 infants (46%) were randomised to receive corticosteroids plus standard treatment with TMP/SMX, and 42 infants (54%) received the standard treatment plus placebo. In an intention-to treatanalysis, the risk ratio of in-hospital mortality in the steroid group compared with the standard treatment plus placebo group was 0.53 [95% CI 0.29–0.97, P=0.038]. The risk ratio of mortality at 6 months was 0.63 (95% CI 0.41–0.95, P=0.029). Two children who received steroids developed bloody stools while in hospital. Conclusion: In infants with a clinical diagnosis of PJP, early use of steroids in addition to conventional TMP/SMX therapy significantly reduced mortality in hospital and 6 months after discharge.
2017-01-01T00:00:00ZNewberry, LauraO'Hare, BernadetteKennedy, NeilSelman, AndrewOmar, SofiaDawson, PamelaStevenson, KimNishihara, YoLissauer, SamanthaMolyneux, ElizabethBackground: Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) is the most common opportunistic infection in infants with vertically acquired HIV infection and the most common cause ofdeath in HIV-infected infants. Objectives: To determine whether early administration of adjuvant corticosteroids in addition to standard treatment reduces mortality in infants with vertically acquired HIV and clinically diagnosed PJP when co-infection with cytomegalovirus and other pathogens cannot be excluded. Methods: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of adjuvant prednisolone treatment in HIV-exposed infants aged 2–6 months admitted to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre who were diagnosed clinically with PJP was performed. All recruited infants were HIV-exposed, and the HIV status of the infant was confirmed by DNA-PCR. HIV exposed and infected infants as well as HIV-exposed but non-infected infants were included in the study. The protocol provided for the addition of prednisolone to the treatment at 48 hours if there was clinical deterioration or an independent indication for corticosteroid therapy in any patient not receiving it. Oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) therapy and full supportive treatment were provided according to established guidelines. Primary outcomes for all patients included survival to hospital discharge and 6-month post-discharge survival. Results: It was planned to enroll 200 patients but the trial was stopped early because of recruitment difficulties and a statistically significant result on interim analysis. Seventy eight infants were enrolled between April 2012 and August 2014; 36 infants (46%) were randomised to receive corticosteroids plus standard treatment with TMP/SMX, and 42 infants (54%) received the standard treatment plus placebo. In an intention-to treatanalysis, the risk ratio of in-hospital mortality in the steroid group compared with the standard treatment plus placebo group was 0.53 [95% CI 0.29–0.97, P=0.038]. The risk ratio of mortality at 6 months was 0.63 (95% CI 0.41–0.95, P=0.029). Two children who received steroids developed bloody stools while in hospital. Conclusion: In infants with a clinical diagnosis of PJP, early use of steroids in addition to conventional TMP/SMX therapy significantly reduced mortality in hospital and 6 months after discharge.Can fear conditioning repel California sea lions from fishing activities?Schakner, Zachary A.Götz, ThomasJanik, Vincent M.Blumstein, Daniel T.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126492018-02-03T00:31:30Z2017-10-01T00:00:00ZMarine mammal interactions with fisheries create conflicts that can threaten human safety, economic interests and marine mammal survival. A deterrent that capitalizes on learning mechanisms, like fear conditioning, may enhance success while simultaneously balancing welfare concerns and reduce noise pollution. During fear conditioning, individuals learn the cues that precede the dangerous stimuli, and respond by avoiding the painful situations. We tested the efficacy of fear conditioning using acoustic stimuli for reducing California sea lion Zalophus californianus interactions from two fishing contexts in California, USA; bait barges and recreational fishing vessels. We performed conditioning trials on 24 individual sea lions interacting with bait barges. We tested for acquisition of conditioned fear by pairing a neutral tone with a startle stimulus. Avoidance was strongest in response to the startle stimulus alone, but low when paired with a neutral tone. From actively fishing vessels, we tested for fear conditioning by exposing sea lions to a neutral tone followed by a startle pulse, a startle pulse alone or a no sound control. We conducted playbacks from 146 (including 48 no sound control) stops over two summer fishing seasons (2013, 2014). The startle stimulus decreased surfacing frequency, reduced bait foraging and increased surfacing distance from the vessel while the conditioned stimulus only caused a mild reduction in surfacing frequency with no other behavioral change. Exposing animals to a pair of a conditioned stimulus with a startle pulse did not achieve the intended management outcome. Rather, it generated evidence (in two study contexts) of immediate learning that led to the reduction of the unconditioned response. Taken together, our results suggest that for fear conditioning to be applied as a non-lethal deterrent, careful consideration has to be given to individual behavior, the unconditioned/conditioned responses and the overall management goals.
Z.S. was supported by a NSF predoctoral fellowship and by a grant from the LaKretz Center for California Conservation Science. D.T.B. was supported by the NSF during manuscript preparation.
2017-10-01T00:00:00ZSchakner, Zachary A.Götz, ThomasJanik, Vincent M.Blumstein, Daniel T.Marine mammal interactions with fisheries create conflicts that can threaten human safety, economic interests and marine mammal survival. A deterrent that capitalizes on learning mechanisms, like fear conditioning, may enhance success while simultaneously balancing welfare concerns and reduce noise pollution. During fear conditioning, individuals learn the cues that precede the dangerous stimuli, and respond by avoiding the painful situations. We tested the efficacy of fear conditioning using acoustic stimuli for reducing California sea lion Zalophus californianus interactions from two fishing contexts in California, USA; bait barges and recreational fishing vessels. We performed conditioning trials on 24 individual sea lions interacting with bait barges. We tested for acquisition of conditioned fear by pairing a neutral tone with a startle stimulus. Avoidance was strongest in response to the startle stimulus alone, but low when paired with a neutral tone. From actively fishing vessels, we tested for fear conditioning by exposing sea lions to a neutral tone followed by a startle pulse, a startle pulse alone or a no sound control. We conducted playbacks from 146 (including 48 no sound control) stops over two summer fishing seasons (2013, 2014). The startle stimulus decreased surfacing frequency, reduced bait foraging and increased surfacing distance from the vessel while the conditioned stimulus only caused a mild reduction in surfacing frequency with no other behavioral change. Exposing animals to a pair of a conditioned stimulus with a startle pulse did not achieve the intended management outcome. Rather, it generated evidence (in two study contexts) of immediate learning that led to the reduction of the unconditioned response. Taken together, our results suggest that for fear conditioning to be applied as a non-lethal deterrent, careful consideration has to be given to individual behavior, the unconditioned/conditioned responses and the overall management goals.Farewell to teleology : reflections on Camus and a rebellious cosmopolitanism without hopeHayden, Patrickhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126482018-02-03T00:15:49Z2016-02-01T00:00:00ZThis article reconstructs Albert Camus’s notion of the absurd in order to elucidate his critique of historical teleology. In his life and work, Camus endeavoured to develop a fallibilist historical sensibility suitable to a cosmos shorn of meaning, which led him to reject ideas of progress and their traces of messianism when elaborating his treatment of rebellion. By making use of Camus’s ideas about the absurd and rebellion, I suggest that these two themes productively unsettle contemporary cosmopolitanism as a teleological orthodoxy of human progress and fruitfully if paradoxically lie at the heart of a concept of cosmopolitanism “without hope”.
2016-02-01T00:00:00ZHayden, PatrickThis article reconstructs Albert Camus’s notion of the absurd in order to elucidate his critique of historical teleology. In his life and work, Camus endeavoured to develop a fallibilist historical sensibility suitable to a cosmos shorn of meaning, which led him to reject ideas of progress and their traces of messianism when elaborating his treatment of rebellion. By making use of Camus’s ideas about the absurd and rebellion, I suggest that these two themes productively unsettle contemporary cosmopolitanism as a teleological orthodoxy of human progress and fruitfully if paradoxically lie at the heart of a concept of cosmopolitanism “without hope”.People, space, and law in late medieval and early modern Britain and IrelandHouston, Roberthttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126472018-02-03T00:16:00Z2016-02-01T00:00:00ZThis article seeks to unravel the different concordances between law, geography, and people over time, showing that how jurisdiction was conceived contributed to quite different relationships between people and space in diverse regions of Britain and Ireland. It discusses mainly the functions and officials of administrative units (such as parish, manor, and barony), the extent and nature of jurisdictions (such as English coroners’), title to land and moveable property, and the maintenance of law and order. The article paints a broad-brush picture, mainly of structures, which ranges across the late medieval and early modern period. It brings together a number of spatial entities and it seeks to nuance meanings of space, place, and territory, which are often used interchangeably by historians. The central question is: how important was space to the law’s dealings with people and things? The argument is that the English attached far clearer legal meaning to territory than did the peoples of the other parts of the British Isles. Jurisdiction in space was particularly important for the English – one element constituting their society - whereas Scots, Welsh, and Irish had more person-focused laws and practices that emphasized the social over the spatial, general principles over specific applications: ‘people-in-space’, governed by law.
2016-02-01T00:00:00ZHouston, RobertThis article seeks to unravel the different concordances between law, geography, and people over time, showing that how jurisdiction was conceived contributed to quite different relationships between people and space in diverse regions of Britain and Ireland. It discusses mainly the functions and officials of administrative units (such as parish, manor, and barony), the extent and nature of jurisdictions (such as English coroners’), title to land and moveable property, and the maintenance of law and order. The article paints a broad-brush picture, mainly of structures, which ranges across the late medieval and early modern period. It brings together a number of spatial entities and it seeks to nuance meanings of space, place, and territory, which are often used interchangeably by historians. The central question is: how important was space to the law’s dealings with people and things? The argument is that the English attached far clearer legal meaning to territory than did the peoples of the other parts of the British Isles. Jurisdiction in space was particularly important for the English – one element constituting their society - whereas Scots, Welsh, and Irish had more person-focused laws and practices that emphasized the social over the spatial, general principles over specific applications: ‘people-in-space’, governed by law.The spread of Roman citizenship 14-212 CE : quantification in the face of high uncertaintyLavan, Myles Patrickhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126462018-02-03T00:15:45Z2016-02-01T00:00:00ZThis paper borrows an analytical method from the sciences to solve an important problem in Roman history, which has long seemed intractable: estimating the proportion of provincials who had Roman citizenship before Caracalla’s general grant of 212/213 ce. The scale of enfranchisement in the early empire has important ramifications for our understanding of the significance of Roman citizenship in that period and the impact of Caracalla’s grant. Yet it has so far eluded quantification entirely. Previous efforts have focused on counting names on inscriptions and other documents and failed to produce any robust conclusions. The problem demands a new approach. This paper starts from the fact that we know that there was a limited number of mechanisms by which new citizens were created and shows that there are limits to the number of citizens those mechanisms can have created over two centuries. There is of course considerable uncertainty about many of the relevant variables, but this can be managed thanks to well-established probabilistic techniques for the estimation and propagation of uncertainty. Given what we already know about the mechanisms of enfranchisement and the demography of the provinces, it is extremely unlikely that more than one third of the free population of the provinces were Roman citizens on the eve of Caracalla’s grant. These are the preliminary results of an ongoing research project. Future publications will refine the estimate, provide more detailed discussion of the underlying assumptions and further explore the historical implications of the result. Here the focus is on methodology, demonstrating that the uncertainty about the individual mechanisms of enfranchisement does not preclude a useful quantitative estimate of the overall level of enfranchisement. The analytical method described here could be a useful tool in attempts to solve many other historical problems that seem similarly beset by insuperable uncertainty.
2016-02-01T00:00:00ZLavan, Myles PatrickThis paper borrows an analytical method from the sciences to solve an important problem in Roman history, which has long seemed intractable: estimating the proportion of provincials who had Roman citizenship before Caracalla’s general grant of 212/213 ce. The scale of enfranchisement in the early empire has important ramifications for our understanding of the significance of Roman citizenship in that period and the impact of Caracalla’s grant. Yet it has so far eluded quantification entirely. Previous efforts have focused on counting names on inscriptions and other documents and failed to produce any robust conclusions. The problem demands a new approach. This paper starts from the fact that we know that there was a limited number of mechanisms by which new citizens were created and shows that there are limits to the number of citizens those mechanisms can have created over two centuries. There is of course considerable uncertainty about many of the relevant variables, but this can be managed thanks to well-established probabilistic techniques for the estimation and propagation of uncertainty. Given what we already know about the mechanisms of enfranchisement and the demography of the provinces, it is extremely unlikely that more than one third of the free population of the provinces were Roman citizens on the eve of Caracalla’s grant. These are the preliminary results of an ongoing research project. Future publications will refine the estimate, provide more detailed discussion of the underlying assumptions and further explore the historical implications of the result. Here the focus is on methodology, demonstrating that the uncertainty about the individual mechanisms of enfranchisement does not preclude a useful quantitative estimate of the overall level of enfranchisement. The analytical method described here could be a useful tool in attempts to solve many other historical problems that seem similarly beset by insuperable uncertainty.The potential for assemblage thinking in population geography : assembling population, space and placeDuffy, PaulaStojanovic, Timothy Andrewhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126452018-03-04T00:32:54Z2017-11-02T00:00:00ZThis study explores ‘Assemblage’ thinking as an approach for population geography research. The paper highlights the recent prominence of Assemblage thinking in human geography, before exploring the potential opportunities for engagement by population geographers. In particular we focus on the production of place as co-constituted by the material (space) and the discursive (knowledge, process and practice). Considering the Assemblage practice of ‘Rendering Technical’, we reflect on the role that population geography plays in authorising knowledge and supporting policy. This is investigated through a critical taxonomic analysis of recent Scottish demographic data. It is argued on the one hand that this captures key economic and population characteristics of ‘place’, while on the other hand it offers a limited technical knowledge. We conclude that a reflexive approach to research using Assemblage thinking may challenge the intimate relationship between population geographers and the state.
This paper is output from an Economic and Social Research Council Award (Reference 1506438) funded in partnership with Marine Scotland, The Scottish Government.
2017-11-02T00:00:00ZDuffy, PaulaStojanovic, Timothy AndrewThis study explores ‘Assemblage’ thinking as an approach for population geography research. The paper highlights the recent prominence of Assemblage thinking in human geography, before exploring the potential opportunities for engagement by population geographers. In particular we focus on the production of place as co-constituted by the material (space) and the discursive (knowledge, process and practice). Considering the Assemblage practice of ‘Rendering Technical’, we reflect on the role that population geography plays in authorising knowledge and supporting policy. This is investigated through a critical taxonomic analysis of recent Scottish demographic data. It is argued on the one hand that this captures key economic and population characteristics of ‘place’, while on the other hand it offers a limited technical knowledge. We conclude that a reflexive approach to research using Assemblage thinking may challenge the intimate relationship between population geographers and the state.Module theory : an approach to linear algebraBlyth, Thomas Scotthttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126432018-02-11T00:33:00Z2018-01-01T00:00:00ZOriginally published in 1977 by Oxford University Press, with a second edition published in 1990. This is a revised version of the second edition published for the first time in electronic form. This electronic edition is published by the University of St Andrews.
2018-01-01T00:00:00ZBlyth, Thomas ScottThe isotope geochemistry of zinc and copperMoynier, FrédéricVance, DerekFujii, ToshiyukiSavage, Paulhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126422018-02-11T00:31:48Z2017-01-31T00:00:00Z2017-01-31T00:00:00ZMoynier, FrédéricVance, DerekFujii, ToshiyukiSavage, PaulThe devil is in the detail : quantifying vocal variation in a complex, multi-levelled, and rapidly evolving displayGarland, Ellen C.Rendell, LukeLilley, Matthew S.Poole, M. MichaelAllen, JennyNoad, Michael J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126412018-02-02T00:16:04Z2017-07-31T00:00:00ZIdentifying and quantifying variation in vocalizations is fundamental to advancing our understanding of processes such as speciation, sexual selection, and cultural evolution. The song of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) presents an extreme example of complexity and cultural evolution. It is a long, hierarchically structured vocal display that undergoes constant evolutionary change. Obtaining robust metrics to quantify song variation at multiple scales (from a sound through to population variation across the seascape) is a substantial challenge. Here, we present a method to quantify song similarity at multiple levels within the hierarchy. To incorporate the complexity of these multiple levels, the calculation of similarity is weighted by measurements of sound units (lower levels within the display) to bridge the gap in information between upper and lower levels. Results demonstrate that the inclusion of weighting provides a more realistic and robust representation of song similarity at multiple levels within the display. Our method permits robust quantification of cultural patterns and processes that will also contribute to the conservation management of endangered humpback whale populations, and is applicable to any hierarchically structured signal sequence.
E.C.G. was funded by a Royal Society Newton International Fellowship. L.R. was supported by the MASTS pooling initiative (The Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland) and their support is gratefully acknowledged. MASTS is funded by the Scottish Funding Council (Grant Reference No. HR09011) and contributing institutions. Some funding and logistical support was provided to M.M.P. by the National Oceanic Society (USA), Dolphin & Whale Watching Expeditions (French Polynesia), Vista Press (USA), and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (via the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium).
2017-07-31T00:00:00ZGarland, Ellen C.Rendell, LukeLilley, Matthew S.Poole, M. MichaelAllen, JennyNoad, Michael J.Identifying and quantifying variation in vocalizations is fundamental to advancing our understanding of processes such as speciation, sexual selection, and cultural evolution. The song of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) presents an extreme example of complexity and cultural evolution. It is a long, hierarchically structured vocal display that undergoes constant evolutionary change. Obtaining robust metrics to quantify song variation at multiple scales (from a sound through to population variation across the seascape) is a substantial challenge. Here, we present a method to quantify song similarity at multiple levels within the hierarchy. To incorporate the complexity of these multiple levels, the calculation of similarity is weighted by measurements of sound units (lower levels within the display) to bridge the gap in information between upper and lower levels. Results demonstrate that the inclusion of weighting provides a more realistic and robust representation of song similarity at multiple levels within the display. Our method permits robust quantification of cultural patterns and processes that will also contribute to the conservation management of endangered humpback whale populations, and is applicable to any hierarchically structured signal sequence.OGLE-2014-BLG-0289 : precise characterization of a quintuple-peak gravitational microlensing eventUdalski, A.Han, C.Bozza, V.Gould, A.Bond, I. A.Mróz, P.Skowron, J.Wyrzykowski, Ł.Szymański, M. K.Soszyński, I.Ulaczyk, K.Poleski, R.Pietrukowicz, P.Kozłowski, S.Abe, F.Barry, R.Bennett, D. P.Bhattacharya, A.Donachie, M.Evans, P.Fukui, A.Hirao, Y.Itow, Y.Kawasaki, K.Koshimoto, N.Li, M. C. A.Ling, C. H.Masuda, K.Matsubara, Y.Miyazaki, S.Munakata, H.Muraki, Y.Nagakane, M.Ohnishi, K.Ranc, C.Rattenbury, N.Saito, T.Sharan, A.Sullivan, D. J.Sumi, T.Suzuki, D.Tristram, P. J.Yamada, T.Yonehara, A.Bachelet, E.Bramich, D. M.DÁgo, G.Dominik, M.Jaimes, R. FigueraHorne, K.Hundertmark, M.Kains, N.Menzies, J.Schmidt, R.Snodgrass, C.Steele, I. A.Wambsganss, J.Pogge, R. W.Jung, Y. K.Shin, I. -G.Yee, J. C.Kim, W. -T.Beichman, C.Carey, S.Novati, S. CalchiZhu, W.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126402018-02-04T00:31:49Z2018-01-24T00:00:00ZWe present the analysis of the binary-microlensing event OGLE-2014-BLG-0289. The event light curve exhibits five very unusual peaks, four of which were produced by caustic crossings and the other by a cusp approach. It is found that the quintuple-peak features of the light curve provide tight constraints on the source trajectory, enabling us to precisely and accurately measure the microlensing parallax πE. Furthermore, the three resolved caustics allow us to measure the angular Einstein radius θE. From the combination of πE and θE, the physical lens parameters are uniquely determined. It is found that the lens is a binary composed of two M dwarfs with masses M1 = 0.52 ± 0.04 M⊙ and M2 = 0.42 ± 0.03 M⊙ separated in projection by a⊥ = 6.4 ± 0.5 au. The lens is located in the disk with a distance of DL = 3.3 ± 0.3 kpc. The reason for the absence of a lensing signal in the Spitzer data is that the time of observation corresponds to the flat region of the light curve.
2018-01-24T00:00:00ZUdalski, A.Han, C.Bozza, V.Gould, A.Bond, I. A.Mróz, P.Skowron, J.Wyrzykowski, Ł.Szymański, M. K.Soszyński, I.Ulaczyk, K.Poleski, R.Pietrukowicz, P.Kozłowski, S.Abe, F.Barry, R.Bennett, D. P.Bhattacharya, A.Donachie, M.Evans, P.Fukui, A.Hirao, Y.Itow, Y.Kawasaki, K.Koshimoto, N.Li, M. C. A.Ling, C. H.Masuda, K.Matsubara, Y.Miyazaki, S.Munakata, H.Muraki, Y.Nagakane, M.Ohnishi, K.Ranc, C.Rattenbury, N.Saito, T.Sharan, A.Sullivan, D. J.Sumi, T.Suzuki, D.Tristram, P. J.Yamada, T.Yonehara, A.Bachelet, E.Bramich, D. M.DÁgo, G.Dominik, M.Jaimes, R. FigueraHorne, K.Hundertmark, M.Kains, N.Menzies, J.Schmidt, R.Snodgrass, C.Steele, I. A.Wambsganss, J.Pogge, R. W.Jung, Y. K.Shin, I. -G.Yee, J. C.Kim, W. -T.Beichman, C.Carey, S.Novati, S. CalchiZhu, W.We present the analysis of the binary-microlensing event OGLE-2014-BLG-0289. The event light curve exhibits five very unusual peaks, four of which were produced by caustic crossings and the other by a cusp approach. It is found that the quintuple-peak features of the light curve provide tight constraints on the source trajectory, enabling us to precisely and accurately measure the microlensing parallax πE. Furthermore, the three resolved caustics allow us to measure the angular Einstein radius θE. From the combination of πE and θE, the physical lens parameters are uniquely determined. It is found that the lens is a binary composed of two M dwarfs with masses M1 = 0.52 ± 0.04 M⊙ and M2 = 0.42 ± 0.03 M⊙ separated in projection by a⊥ = 6.4 ± 0.5 au. The lens is located in the disk with a distance of DL = 3.3 ± 0.3 kpc. The reason for the absence of a lensing signal in the Spitzer data is that the time of observation corresponds to the flat region of the light curve.Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA) : blue spheroids within 87 MpcMahajan, SmritiDrinkwater, Michael J.Driver, S.Hopkins, A. M.Graham, Alister W.Brough, S.Brown, Michael J. I.Holwerda, B. W.Owers, Matt S.Pimbblet, Kevin A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126392018-02-03T02:30:15Z2018-03-21T00:00:00ZIn this paper we test if nearby blue spheroid (BSph) galaxies may become the progenitors of star-forming spiral galaxies or passively-evolving elliptical galaxies. Our sample comprises 428 galaxies of various morphologies in the redshift range 0.002 < z < 0.02 (8-87 Mpc) with panchromatic data from the Galaxy and Mass Assembly survey.We find that BSph galaxies are structurally (mean effective surface brightness, effective radius) very similar to their passively-evolving red counterparts. However, their star-formation and other properties such as colour, age and metallicity are more like star-forming spirals than spheroids (ellipticals and lenticulars). We show that BSph galaxies are statistically distinguishable from other spheroids as well as spirals in the multi-dimensional space mapped by luminosity-weighted age, metallicity, dust mass and specific star formation rate. We use HI data to reveal that some of the BSphs are (further) developing their disks, hence their blue colours. They may eventually become spiral galaxies — if sufficient gas accretion occurs — or more likely fade into low-mass red galaxies.
2018-03-21T00:00:00ZMahajan, SmritiDrinkwater, Michael J.Driver, S.Hopkins, A. M.Graham, Alister W.Brough, S.Brown, Michael J. I.Holwerda, B. W.Owers, Matt S.Pimbblet, Kevin A.In this paper we test if nearby blue spheroid (BSph) galaxies may become the progenitors of star-forming spiral galaxies or passively-evolving elliptical galaxies. Our sample comprises 428 galaxies of various morphologies in the redshift range 0.002 < z < 0.02 (8-87 Mpc) with panchromatic data from the Galaxy and Mass Assembly survey.We find that BSph galaxies are structurally (mean effective surface brightness, effective radius) very similar to their passively-evolving red counterparts. However, their star-formation and other properties such as colour, age and metallicity are more like star-forming spirals than spheroids (ellipticals and lenticulars). We show that BSph galaxies are statistically distinguishable from other spheroids as well as spirals in the multi-dimensional space mapped by luminosity-weighted age, metallicity, dust mass and specific star formation rate. We use HI data to reveal that some of the BSphs are (further) developing their disks, hence their blue colours. They may eventually become spiral galaxies — if sufficient gas accretion occurs — or more likely fade into low-mass red galaxies.The SAMI Galaxy Survey : data release one with emission-line physics value-added productsGreen, Andrew W.Croom, Scott M.Scott, NicholasCortese, LucaMedling, Anne M.D'Eugenio, FrancescoBryant, Julia J.Bland-Hawthorn, JossAllen, J. T.Sharp, RobHo, I-TingGroves, BrentDrinkwater, Michael J.Mannering, ElizabethHarischandra, LloydSande, Jesse van deThomas, Adam D.O'Toole, SimonMcDermid, Richard M.Vuong, MinhSealey, KatrinaBauer, Amanda E.Brough, S.Catinella, BarbaraCecil, GeraldColless, MatthewCouch, Warrick J.Driver, Simon P.Federrath, ChristophFoster, CarolineGoodwin, MichaelHampton, Elise J.Hopkins, A. M.Jones, D. HeathKonstantopoulos, Iraklis S.Lawrence, J. S.Leon-Saval, Sergio G.Liske, JochenĹópez-Sánchez, Angel R.Lorente, Nuria P. F.Mould, JeremyObreschkow, DanailOwers, Matt S.Richards, Samuel N.Robotham, Aaron S. G.Schaefer, Adam L.Sweet, Sarah M.Taranu, Dan S.Tescari, EdoardoTonini, ChiaraZafar, T.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126382018-02-04T00:31:46Z2018-03-21T00:00:00ZWe present the first major release of data from the SAMI Galaxy Survey. This data release focuses on the emission-line physics of galaxies. Data Release One includes data for 772 galaxies, about 20% of the full survey. Galaxies included have the redshift range 0.004 < z < 0.092, a large massrange (7.6 < log M∗/M⊙ < 11.6), and star-formation rates of ∼10−4 to ∼101 M⊙yr−1. For each galaxy, we include two spectral cubes and a set of spatially resolved 2D maps: single- and multi-component emission-line fits (with dust extinction corrections for strong lines), local dust extinction and star-formation rate. Calibration of the fibre throughputs, fluxes and differential-atmospheric-refraction has been improved over the Early Data Release. The data have average spatial resolution of 2.16 arcsec (FWHM) over the 15 arcsec diameter field of view and spectral (kinematic) resolution R= 4263 (σ= 30 km s−1) around Hα. The relative flux calibration is better than 5% and absolute flux calibration better than ±0.22 mag, with the latter estimate limited by galaxy photometry. The data are presented online through the Australian Astronomical Observatory’s Data Central.
SAMI DR1 data products available from http://datacentral.aao.gov.au/asvo/surveys/sami/
2018-03-21T00:00:00ZGreen, Andrew W.Croom, Scott M.Scott, NicholasCortese, LucaMedling, Anne M.D'Eugenio, FrancescoBryant, Julia J.Bland-Hawthorn, JossAllen, J. T.Sharp, RobHo, I-TingGroves, BrentDrinkwater, Michael J.Mannering, ElizabethHarischandra, LloydSande, Jesse van deThomas, Adam D.O'Toole, SimonMcDermid, Richard M.Vuong, MinhSealey, KatrinaBauer, Amanda E.Brough, S.Catinella, BarbaraCecil, GeraldColless, MatthewCouch, Warrick J.Driver, Simon P.Federrath, ChristophFoster, CarolineGoodwin, MichaelHampton, Elise J.Hopkins, A. M.Jones, D. HeathKonstantopoulos, Iraklis S.Lawrence, J. S.Leon-Saval, Sergio G.Liske, JochenĹópez-Sánchez, Angel R.Lorente, Nuria P. F.Mould, JeremyObreschkow, DanailOwers, Matt S.Richards, Samuel N.Robotham, Aaron S. G.Schaefer, Adam L.Sweet, Sarah M.Taranu, Dan S.Tescari, EdoardoTonini, ChiaraZafar, T.We present the first major release of data from the SAMI Galaxy Survey. This data release focuses on the emission-line physics of galaxies. Data Release One includes data for 772 galaxies, about 20% of the full survey. Galaxies included have the redshift range 0.004 < z < 0.092, a large massrange (7.6 < log M∗/M⊙ < 11.6), and star-formation rates of ∼10−4 to ∼101 M⊙yr−1. For each galaxy, we include two spectral cubes and a set of spatially resolved 2D maps: single- and multi-component emission-line fits (with dust extinction corrections for strong lines), local dust extinction and star-formation rate. Calibration of the fibre throughputs, fluxes and differential-atmospheric-refraction has been improved over the Early Data Release. The data have average spatial resolution of 2.16 arcsec (FWHM) over the 15 arcsec diameter field of view and spectral (kinematic) resolution R= 4263 (σ= 30 km s−1) around Hα. The relative flux calibration is better than 5% and absolute flux calibration better than ±0.22 mag, with the latter estimate limited by galaxy photometry. The data are presented online through the Australian Astronomical Observatory’s Data Central.Human mate-choice copying is domain-general social learningStreet, Sally E.Morgan, Thomas J. H.Thornton, AlexBrown, Gillian R.Laland, Kevin N.Cross, Catharine P.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126372018-03-04T02:30:50Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZWomen appear to copy other women’s preferences for men’s faces. This ‘mate-choice copying’ is often taken as evidence of psychological adaptations for processing social information related to mate choice, for which facial information is assumed to be particularly salient. No controlled experiment, however, has directly investigated whether women preferentially copy face preferences compared with other kinds of decision. Further, because prior experimental studies used artificial social information, the effect of real social information on attractiveness preferences is unknown. We collected attractiveness ratings of pictures of men’s faces, men’s hands, and abstract art given by heterosexual women, before and after participants saw genuine social information gathered in real time from their peers. Ratings of faces were influenced by social information, but no more or less so than were images of hands and abstract art. Our results suggest that evidence for domain-specific social learning mechanisms in humans is weaker than previously assumed.
Research supported in part by an ERC Advanced Grant to K.N.L. (EVOCULTURE, ref: 232823). A.T. was supported by a BBSRC David Phillips Fellowship (BB/H021817/1) and a grant from the ESRC (ES/M006042/1).
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZStreet, Sally E.Morgan, Thomas J. H.Thornton, AlexBrown, Gillian R.Laland, Kevin N.Cross, Catharine P.Women appear to copy other women’s preferences for men’s faces. This ‘mate-choice copying’ is often taken as evidence of psychological adaptations for processing social information related to mate choice, for which facial information is assumed to be particularly salient. No controlled experiment, however, has directly investigated whether women preferentially copy face preferences compared with other kinds of decision. Further, because prior experimental studies used artificial social information, the effect of real social information on attractiveness preferences is unknown. We collected attractiveness ratings of pictures of men’s faces, men’s hands, and abstract art given by heterosexual women, before and after participants saw genuine social information gathered in real time from their peers. Ratings of faces were influenced by social information, but no more or less so than were images of hands and abstract art. Our results suggest that evidence for domain-specific social learning mechanisms in humans is weaker than previously assumed.Isothiourea-catalysed chemo- and enantioselective [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangements of N,N-diallyl allylic ammonium ylidesWest, Thomas H.Spoehrle, Stéphanie S. M.Smith, Andrew D.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126362018-02-01T00:15:40Z2017-07-20T00:00:00ZThe isothiourea-catalysed chemo- and enantioselective [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement of N,N-diallyl allylic ammonium ylides is explored as a key part of a route to free functionalised α-amino esters and piperidines. The [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement proceeds with excellent diastereo- and enantiocontrol (>95:5 dr, up to 97% ee), with the resultant N,N-diallyl α-amino esters undergoing either mono- or bis-N-allyl deprotection. Bis-N-allyl deprotection leads to free α-amino esters, while the mono-deprotection strategy has been utilized in the synthesis of a target functionalised piperidine.
The research leading to these results (T.H.W.) has received funding from the ERC under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007–2013)/E.R.C. grant agreement n° 279850 and the European Union (Marie Curie ITN “SubiCat” PITN-GA-2013-607044) (S. S. M. S.). A.D.S. thanks the Royal Society for a Wolfson Research Merit Award. The data underpinning this publication can be found at DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17630/f522b48d-ed02–42b3-a161-54687ea5af57
2017-07-20T00:00:00ZWest, Thomas H.Spoehrle, Stéphanie S. M.Smith, Andrew D.The isothiourea-catalysed chemo- and enantioselective [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement of N,N-diallyl allylic ammonium ylides is explored as a key part of a route to free functionalised α-amino esters and piperidines. The [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement proceeds with excellent diastereo- and enantiocontrol (>95:5 dr, up to 97% ee), with the resultant N,N-diallyl α-amino esters undergoing either mono- or bis-N-allyl deprotection. Bis-N-allyl deprotection leads to free α-amino esters, while the mono-deprotection strategy has been utilized in the synthesis of a target functionalised piperidine.A low-cost, portable optical explosive-vapour sensorGillanders, Ross N.Samuel, Ifor D. W.Turnbull, Graham A.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126352018-03-18T01:39:10Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZHumanitarian demining requires a broad range of methodologies and instrumentation for reliable identification of landmines, antipersonnel mines, and other explosive remnants of war (ERWs). Optical sensing methods are ideal for this purpose due to advantages in sensitivity, time-of-response and small form factor. In this work we present a portable photoluminescence-based sensor for nitroaromatic vapours based on the conjugated polymer Super Yellow integrated into an instrument comprising an excitation LED, photodiode, Arduino microprocessor and pumping mechanics for vapour delivery. The instrument was shown to be sensitive to few-ppb concentrations of explosive vapours under laboratory conditions, and responds to simulated buried landmine vapour. The results indicate that a lightweight, easy-to-operate, lowcost and highly-sensitive optical sensor can be readily constructed for landmine and ERW detection in the field, with potential to aid worldwide efforts in landmine mitigation.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme for research, technological development and demonstration under agreement no 284747. IDWS acknowledges a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award. Data supporting this research can be found at http://dx.doi.org/10.17630/5868c89a-7019-4897-9c54-24ccc551a6e6.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZGillanders, Ross N.Samuel, Ifor D. W.Turnbull, Graham A.Humanitarian demining requires a broad range of methodologies and instrumentation for reliable identification of landmines, antipersonnel mines, and other explosive remnants of war (ERWs). Optical sensing methods are ideal for this purpose due to advantages in sensitivity, time-of-response and small form factor. In this work we present a portable photoluminescence-based sensor for nitroaromatic vapours based on the conjugated polymer Super Yellow integrated into an instrument comprising an excitation LED, photodiode, Arduino microprocessor and pumping mechanics for vapour delivery. The instrument was shown to be sensitive to few-ppb concentrations of explosive vapours under laboratory conditions, and responds to simulated buried landmine vapour. The results indicate that a lightweight, easy-to-operate, lowcost and highly-sensitive optical sensor can be readily constructed for landmine and ERW detection in the field, with potential to aid worldwide efforts in landmine mitigation.Towards automated cancer screening : label-free classification of fixed cell samples using wavelength modulated Raman spectroscopyWoolford, LanaChen, MingzhouDholakia, KishanHerrington, C. Simonhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126342018-02-11T01:36:09Z2018-01-30T00:00:00ZThe ability to provide quantitative, objective and automated pathological analysis would provide enormous benefits for national cancer screening programmes, in terms of both resource reduction and improved patient wellbeing. The move towards molecular pathology through spectroscopic methods shows great promise, but has been restricted by spectral quality, acquisition times and lack of direct clinical application. In this paper, we present the application of wavelength modulated Raman spectroscopy for the automated label- and fluorescence-free classification of fixed squamous epithelial cells in suspension, such as those produced during a cervical smear test. Direct comparison with standard Raman spectroscopy shows marked improvement of sensitivity and specificity when considering both human papillomavirus (sensitivity +12.0%, specificity +5.3%) and transformation status (sensitivity +10.3%, specificity +11.1%). Studies on the impact of intracellular sampling location and storage effects suggest that wavelength modulated Raman spectroscopy is sufficiently robust to be used in fixed cell classification, but requires further investigations of potential sources of molecular variation in order to improve current clinical tools.
This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Medical Research Council [EP/L016559/1, EP/P030017/1], and CRUK [A18075 Core Award].
2018-01-30T00:00:00ZWoolford, LanaChen, MingzhouDholakia, KishanHerrington, C. SimonThe ability to provide quantitative, objective and automated pathological analysis would provide enormous benefits for national cancer screening programmes, in terms of both resource reduction and improved patient wellbeing. The move towards molecular pathology through spectroscopic methods shows great promise, but has been restricted by spectral quality, acquisition times and lack of direct clinical application. In this paper, we present the application of wavelength modulated Raman spectroscopy for the automated label- and fluorescence-free classification of fixed squamous epithelial cells in suspension, such as those produced during a cervical smear test. Direct comparison with standard Raman spectroscopy shows marked improvement of sensitivity and specificity when considering both human papillomavirus (sensitivity +12.0%, specificity +5.3%) and transformation status (sensitivity +10.3%, specificity +11.1%). Studies on the impact of intracellular sampling location and storage effects suggest that wavelength modulated Raman spectroscopy is sufficiently robust to be used in fixed cell classification, but requires further investigations of potential sources of molecular variation in order to improve current clinical tools.Individual variation in reproductive behaviour is linked to temporal heterogeneity in predation riskBarbosa, MiguelDeacon, Amy ElizabethJaneiro Silva, Maria JoaoRamnarine, IndarMorrissey, Michael BlairMagurran, Anne Elizabethhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126322018-03-11T01:37:56Z2018-01-10T00:00:00ZVariation in predation risk is a major driver of ecological and evolutionary change, and, in turn, of geographical variation in behaviour. While predation risk is rarely constant in natural populations, the extent to which variation in predation risk shapes individual behaviour in wild populations remains unclear. Here, we investigated individual differences in reproductive behaviour in 16 Trinidadian guppy populations and related it to the observed variation in predator biomass each population experienced. Our results show that high heterogeneity in predator biomass is linked to individual behavioural diversification. Increased within-population heterogeneity in predator biomass is also associated with behavioural polymorphism. Some individuals adjust the frequency of consensual mating behaviour in response to differences in sex ratio context, while others display constantly at elevated frequencies. This pattern is analogous to a ‘live fast, die young’ pace-of-life syndrome. Notably, both high and low mean differences in predator biomass led to a homogenization of individual frequency of consensual mating displays. Overall, our results demonstrate that individual behavioural variation is associated with heterogeneity in predator biomass, but not necessarily with changes in mean values of predator biomass. We suggest that heterogeneity in predator biomass is an informative predictor of adaptive responses to changes in biotic conditions.
2018-01-10T00:00:00ZBarbosa, MiguelDeacon, Amy ElizabethJaneiro Silva, Maria JoaoRamnarine, IndarMorrissey, Michael BlairMagurran, Anne ElizabethVariation in predation risk is a major driver of ecological and evolutionary change, and, in turn, of geographical variation in behaviour. While predation risk is rarely constant in natural populations, the extent to which variation in predation risk shapes individual behaviour in wild populations remains unclear. Here, we investigated individual differences in reproductive behaviour in 16 Trinidadian guppy populations and related it to the observed variation in predator biomass each population experienced. Our results show that high heterogeneity in predator biomass is linked to individual behavioural diversification. Increased within-population heterogeneity in predator biomass is also associated with behavioural polymorphism. Some individuals adjust the frequency of consensual mating behaviour in response to differences in sex ratio context, while others display constantly at elevated frequencies. This pattern is analogous to a ‘live fast, die young’ pace-of-life syndrome. Notably, both high and low mean differences in predator biomass led to a homogenization of individual frequency of consensual mating displays. Overall, our results demonstrate that individual behavioural variation is associated with heterogeneity in predator biomass, but not necessarily with changes in mean values of predator biomass. We suggest that heterogeneity in predator biomass is an informative predictor of adaptive responses to changes in biotic conditions.Differentiation measures for conservation geneticsJost, LouArcher, FrederickFlanagan, SarahGaggiotti, OscarHoban, SeanLatch, Emilyhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126312018-01-31T00:16:12Z2018-01-29T00:00:00ZWe compare the two main classes of measures of population structure in genetics: (1) fixation measures such as FST, GST, and θ, and (2) allelic differentiation measures such as Jost’s D and entropy differentiation. These two groups of measures quantify complementary aspects of population structure, which have no necessary relationship with each other. We focus especially on empirical aspects of population structure relevant to conservation analyses. At the empirical level, the first set of measures quantify nearness to fixation, while the second set of measures quantify relative degree of allelic differentiation. The two sets of measures do not compete with each other. Fixation measures are often misinterpreted as measures of allelic differentiation in conservation applications; we give examples and theoretical explanations showing why this interpretation can mislead. This misinterpretation has led to the mistaken belief that the absolute number of migrants determines allelic differentiation between demes when mutation rate is low; we show that in the finite island model the absolute number of migrants determines nearness to fixation, not allelic differentiation. We show that a different quantity, the factor which controls Jost’s D, is a good predictor of the evolution of the actual genetic divergence between demes at equilibrium in this model. We also show that when conservation decisions require judgements about differences in genetic composition between demes, allelic differentiation measures should be used instead of fixation measures. Allelic differentiation of fast-mutating markers can be used to rank pairs or sets of demes according to their differentiation, but the allelic differentiation at coding loci of interest should be directly measured in order to judge its actual magnitude at these loci.
2018-01-29T00:00:00ZJost, LouArcher, FrederickFlanagan, SarahGaggiotti, OscarHoban, SeanLatch, EmilyWe compare the two main classes of measures of population structure in genetics: (1) fixation measures such as FST, GST, and θ, and (2) allelic differentiation measures such as Jost’s D and entropy differentiation. These two groups of measures quantify complementary aspects of population structure, which have no necessary relationship with each other. We focus especially on empirical aspects of population structure relevant to conservation analyses. At the empirical level, the first set of measures quantify nearness to fixation, while the second set of measures quantify relative degree of allelic differentiation. The two sets of measures do not compete with each other. Fixation measures are often misinterpreted as measures of allelic differentiation in conservation applications; we give examples and theoretical explanations showing why this interpretation can mislead. This misinterpretation has led to the mistaken belief that the absolute number of migrants determines allelic differentiation between demes when mutation rate is low; we show that in the finite island model the absolute number of migrants determines nearness to fixation, not allelic differentiation. We show that a different quantity, the factor which controls Jost’s D, is a good predictor of the evolution of the actual genetic divergence between demes at equilibrium in this model. We also show that when conservation decisions require judgements about differences in genetic composition between demes, allelic differentiation measures should be used instead of fixation measures. Allelic differentiation of fast-mutating markers can be used to rank pairs or sets of demes according to their differentiation, but the allelic differentiation at coding loci of interest should be directly measured in order to judge its actual magnitude at these loci.Antarctic pack-ice algal distribution : floe-scale spatial variability and predictability from physical parametersMeiners, K. M.Arndt, S.Bestley, S.Krumpen, T.Ricker, R.Milnes, M.Newbery, K.Freier, U.Jarman, S.King, R.Proud, R.Kawaguchi, S.Meyer, B.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126302018-01-31T00:16:20Z2017-07-29T00:00:00ZAntarctic pack ice serves as habitat for microalgae which contribute to Southern Ocean primary production and serve as important food source for pelagic herbivores. Ice algal biomass is highly patchy, and remains severely undersampled by classical methods such as spatially restricted ice-coring surveys. Here we provide an unprecedented view of ice algal biomass distribution, mapped (as chlorophyll-a) in a 100m-by-100m area of a Weddell Sea pack-ice floe, using under-ice irradiance measurements taken with an instrumented Remotely Operated Vehicle. We identified significant correlations (p <0.001) between algal biomass and concomitant in situ surface measurements of snow depth, ice thickness and estimated sea-ice freeboard levels using a statistical model. The model's explanatory power (r2 = 0.30) indicates that these parameters alone may provide a first basis for spatial prediction of ice algal biomass, but parameterisation of additional determinants is needed to inform more robust upscaling efforts.
This study was supported by the PACES (Polar Regions and Coasts in a changing Earth System) program (Topic 1, WP 5) of the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, the Helmholtz Virtual Institute „PolarTime“ (VH-VI-500: Biological timing in a changing marine environment — clocks and rhythms in polar pelagic organisms), the Helmholtz Alliance “Remote Sensing and Earth System Dynamics” (HA-310); and by the Australian Government through i) Australian Antarctic Science projects (4073, 4298), ii) the Cooperative Research Centres Programme through the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre (ACE CRC), and iii) the Antarctic Gateway Partnership special research initiative through the Australian Research Council. All data used in this study are available through the Australian Antarctic Data Centre as well as PANGAEA (doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.870706).
2017-07-29T00:00:00ZMeiners, K. M.Arndt, S.Bestley, S.Krumpen, T.Ricker, R.Milnes, M.Newbery, K.Freier, U.Jarman, S.King, R.Proud, R.Kawaguchi, S.Meyer, B.Antarctic pack ice serves as habitat for microalgae which contribute to Southern Ocean primary production and serve as important food source for pelagic herbivores. Ice algal biomass is highly patchy, and remains severely undersampled by classical methods such as spatially restricted ice-coring surveys. Here we provide an unprecedented view of ice algal biomass distribution, mapped (as chlorophyll-a) in a 100m-by-100m area of a Weddell Sea pack-ice floe, using under-ice irradiance measurements taken with an instrumented Remotely Operated Vehicle. We identified significant correlations (p <0.001) between algal biomass and concomitant in situ surface measurements of snow depth, ice thickness and estimated sea-ice freeboard levels using a statistical model. The model's explanatory power (r2 = 0.30) indicates that these parameters alone may provide a first basis for spatial prediction of ice algal biomass, but parameterisation of additional determinants is needed to inform more robust upscaling efforts.GAMA/G10-COSMOS/3D-HST : the 0 < z < 5 cosmic star-formation history, stellar- and dust-mass densitiesDriver, Simon P.Andrews, Stephen K.Cunha, Elisabete daDavies, Luke J.Lagos, ClaudiaRobotham, Aaron S. G.Vinsen, KevinWright, Angus H.Alpaslan, MehmetBland-Hawthorn, JossBourne, NathanBrough, SarahBremer, Malcolm N.Cluver, MichelleColless, MatthewConselice, Christopher J.Dunne, LorettaEales, Steve A.Gomez, HaleyHolwerda, BenneHopkins, Andrew M.Kafle, Prajwal R.Kelvin, Lee S.Loveday, JonLiske, JochenMaddox, Steve J.Phillipps, StevenPimbblet, KevinRowlands, KateSansom, Anne E.Taylor, EdwardWang, LingyuWilkins, Stephen M.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126292018-03-12T15:30:04Z2018-04-11T00:00:00ZWe use the energy-balance code MAGPHYS to determine stellar and dust masses, and dust corrected star-formation rates for over 200,000 GAMA galaxies, 170,000 G10-COSMOS galaxies and 200,000 3D-HST galaxies. Our values agree well with previously reported measurements and constitute a representative and homogeneous dataset spanning a broad range in stellar mass (108—1012M⊙), dust mass (106—109M⊙), and star-formation rates (0.01—100M⊙yr−1), and over a broad redshift range (0.0 < z < 5.0). We combine these data to measure the cosmic star-formation history (CSFH), the stellar-mass density (SMD), and the dust-mass density (DMD) over a 12 Gyr timeline. The data mostly agree with previous estimates, where they exist, and provide a quasi-homogeneous dataset using consistent mass and star-formation estimators with consistent underlying assumptions over the full time range. As a consequence our formal errors are significantly reduced when compared to the historic literature. Integrating our cosmic star-formation history we precisely reproduce the stellar-mass density with an ISM replenishment factor of 0.50 ± 0.07, consistent with our choice of Chabrier IMF plus some modest amount of stripped stellar mass. Exploring the cosmic dust density evolution, we find a gradual increase in dust density with lookback time. We build a simple phenomenological model from the CSFH to account for the dust mass evolution, and infer two key conclusions: (1) For every unit of stellar mass which is formed 0.0065—0.004 units of dust mass is also formed; (2) Over the history of the Universe approximately 90 to 95 per cent of all dust formed has been destroyed and/or ejected.
2018-04-11T00:00:00ZDriver, Simon P.Andrews, Stephen K.Cunha, Elisabete daDavies, Luke J.Lagos, ClaudiaRobotham, Aaron S. G.Vinsen, KevinWright, Angus H.Alpaslan, MehmetBland-Hawthorn, JossBourne, NathanBrough, SarahBremer, Malcolm N.Cluver, MichelleColless, MatthewConselice, Christopher J.Dunne, LorettaEales, Steve A.Gomez, HaleyHolwerda, BenneHopkins, Andrew M.Kafle, Prajwal R.Kelvin, Lee S.Loveday, JonLiske, JochenMaddox, Steve J.Phillipps, StevenPimbblet, KevinRowlands, KateSansom, Anne E.Taylor, EdwardWang, LingyuWilkins, Stephen M.We use the energy-balance code MAGPHYS to determine stellar and dust masses, and dust corrected star-formation rates for over 200,000 GAMA galaxies, 170,000 G10-COSMOS galaxies and 200,000 3D-HST galaxies. Our values agree well with previously reported measurements and constitute a representative and homogeneous dataset spanning a broad range in stellar mass (108—1012M⊙), dust mass (106—109M⊙), and star-formation rates (0.01—100M⊙yr−1), and over a broad redshift range (0.0 < z < 5.0). We combine these data to measure the cosmic star-formation history (CSFH), the stellar-mass density (SMD), and the dust-mass density (DMD) over a 12 Gyr timeline. The data mostly agree with previous estimates, where they exist, and provide a quasi-homogeneous dataset using consistent mass and star-formation estimators with consistent underlying assumptions over the full time range. As a consequence our formal errors are significantly reduced when compared to the historic literature. Integrating our cosmic star-formation history we precisely reproduce the stellar-mass density with an ISM replenishment factor of 0.50 ± 0.07, consistent with our choice of Chabrier IMF plus some modest amount of stripped stellar mass. Exploring the cosmic dust density evolution, we find a gradual increase in dust density with lookback time. We build a simple phenomenological model from the CSFH to account for the dust mass evolution, and infer two key conclusions: (1) For every unit of stellar mass which is formed 0.0065—0.004 units of dust mass is also formed; (2) Over the history of the Universe approximately 90 to 95 per cent of all dust formed has been destroyed and/or ejected.Wearable assistive technologies for autism : opportunities and challengesMansouri Benssassi, EsmaGomez, Juan-CarlosBoyd, LouAnne E.Hayes, Gillian R.Ye, Juanhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126282018-03-11T00:33:21Z2017-09-01T00:00:00ZAutism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Challenges with typical social engagement, common in the autism experience, can have a significant negative impact on the quality of life of individuals and families living with autism. Recent advances in sensing, intelligent, and interactive technologies can enable new forms of assistive and augmentative technologies to support social interactions. However, researchers have not yet demonstrated effectiveness of these technologies in long-term real-world use. This paper presents an overview of social and sensory challenges of autism, which offer great opportunities and challenges for the design and development of assistive technologies. We review the existing work on developing wearable technologies for autism particularly to assist social interactions, analyse their potential and limitations, and discuss future research directions.
2017-09-01T00:00:00ZMansouri Benssassi, EsmaGomez, Juan-CarlosBoyd, LouAnne E.Hayes, Gillian R.Ye, JuanAutism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Challenges with typical social engagement, common in the autism experience, can have a significant negative impact on the quality of life of individuals and families living with autism. Recent advances in sensing, intelligent, and interactive technologies can enable new forms of assistive and augmentative technologies to support social interactions. However, researchers have not yet demonstrated effectiveness of these technologies in long-term real-world use. This paper presents an overview of social and sensory challenges of autism, which offer great opportunities and challenges for the design and development of assistive technologies. We review the existing work on developing wearable technologies for autism particularly to assist social interactions, analyse their potential and limitations, and discuss future research directions.Flare particle acceleration in the interaction of twisted coronal flux ropesThrelfall, J.Hood, A. W.Browning, P. K.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126272018-01-30T00:16:22Z2017-12-22T00:00:00ZAims. The aim of this work is to investigate and characterise non-thermal particle behaviour in a three-dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) model of unstable multi-threaded flaring coronal loops. Methods. We have used a numerical scheme which solves the relativistic guiding centre approximation to study the motion of electrons and protons. The scheme uses snapshots from high resolution numerical MHD simulations of coronal loops containing two threads, where a single thread becomes unstable and (in one case) destabilises and merges with an additional thread. Results. The particle responses to the reconnection and fragmentation in MHD simulations of two loop threads are examined in detail. We illustrate the role played by uniform background resistivity and distinguish this from the role of anomalous resistivity using orbits in an MHD simulation where only one thread becomes unstable without destabilising further loop threads. We examine the (scalable) orbit energy gains and final positions recovered at different stages of a second MHD simulation wherein a secondary loop thread is destabilised by (and merges with) the first thread. We compare these results with other theoretical particle acceleration models in the context of observed energetic particle populations during solar flares.
The authors gratefully acknowledge the support of the U.K. Science and Technology Facilities Council. JT and AWH acknowledge the financial support of STFC through the Consolidated grant, ST/N000609/1, to the University of St Andrews. PKB acknowledges STFC support through ST/P000428/1 at the University of Manchester.
2017-12-22T00:00:00ZThrelfall, J.Hood, A. W.Browning, P. K.Aims. The aim of this work is to investigate and characterise non-thermal particle behaviour in a three-dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) model of unstable multi-threaded flaring coronal loops. Methods. We have used a numerical scheme which solves the relativistic guiding centre approximation to study the motion of electrons and protons. The scheme uses snapshots from high resolution numerical MHD simulations of coronal loops containing two threads, where a single thread becomes unstable and (in one case) destabilises and merges with an additional thread. Results. The particle responses to the reconnection and fragmentation in MHD simulations of two loop threads are examined in detail. We illustrate the role played by uniform background resistivity and distinguish this from the role of anomalous resistivity using orbits in an MHD simulation where only one thread becomes unstable without destabilising further loop threads. We examine the (scalable) orbit energy gains and final positions recovered at different stages of a second MHD simulation wherein a secondary loop thread is destabilised by (and merges with) the first thread. We compare these results with other theoretical particle acceleration models in the context of observed energetic particle populations during solar flares.MCINTYRE (G.) A Family of Gods. The Worship of the Imperial Family in the Latin West. Pp. xii + 179. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2016. Cased, US$60. ISBN: 978-0-472-13005-4.Cousins, Eleri Hopkinshttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126262018-02-25T00:33:11Z2018-01-26T00:00:00Z2018-01-26T00:00:00ZCousins, Eleri HopkinsSimplifying nature : towards the design of broad spectrum kinetoplastid inhibitors, inspired by acetogeninsGould, Eoin R.King, Elizabeth F. B.Menzies, Stefanie K.Fraser, Andrew L.Tulloch, Lindsay B.Zacharova, Marija K.Smith, Terry K.Florence, Gordon J.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126252018-01-30T00:16:20Z2017-11-15T00:00:00ZThe need for new treatments for the neglected tropical diseases African sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis remains urgent with the diseases widespread in tropical regions, affecting the worlds very poorest. We have previously reported bis-tetrahydropyran 1,4-triazole analogues designed as mimics of the annonaceous acetogenin natural product chamuvarinin, which maintained trypanocidal activity. Building upon these studies, we here report related triazole compounds with pendant heterocycles, mimicking the original butenolide of the natural product. Analogues were active against T. brucei, with a nitrofuran compound displaying nanomolar trypanocidal activity- several analogues also showed strong activity against T. cruzi and L. major. Importantly, select compounds gave excellent selectivity over mammalian cells with a furan-based analogue highly selective while remaining active against all three cell lines, thus representing a potential lead for a new broad spectrum kinetoplastid inhibitor.
This work was funded by the Leverhulme Trust. The research data supporting this publication can be accessed at http://dx.doi.org/10.17630/1dd8b881-17c2-48e4-a72f-53af938f4537.
2017-11-15T00:00:00ZGould, Eoin R.King, Elizabeth F. B.Menzies, Stefanie K.Fraser, Andrew L.Tulloch, Lindsay B.Zacharova, Marija K.Smith, Terry K.Florence, Gordon J.The need for new treatments for the neglected tropical diseases African sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis remains urgent with the diseases widespread in tropical regions, affecting the worlds very poorest. We have previously reported bis-tetrahydropyran 1,4-triazole analogues designed as mimics of the annonaceous acetogenin natural product chamuvarinin, which maintained trypanocidal activity. Building upon these studies, we here report related triazole compounds with pendant heterocycles, mimicking the original butenolide of the natural product. Analogues were active against T. brucei, with a nitrofuran compound displaying nanomolar trypanocidal activity- several analogues also showed strong activity against T. cruzi and L. major. Importantly, select compounds gave excellent selectivity over mammalian cells with a furan-based analogue highly selective while remaining active against all three cell lines, thus representing a potential lead for a new broad spectrum kinetoplastid inhibitor.Understanding the distribution of economic benefits from improving coastal and marine ecosystemsPakalniete, KristineAigars, JurisCzajkowski, MikołajStrake, SolvitaZawojska, EwaHanley, Nickhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126242018-01-29T00:16:04Z2017-04-15T00:00:00ZThe ecological status of coastal and marine waterbodies world-wide is threatened by multiple stressors, including nutrient inputs from various sources and increasing occurrences of invasive alien species. These stressors impact the environmental quality of the Baltic Sea. Each Baltic Sea country contributes to the stressors and, at the same time, is affected by their negative impacts on water quality. Knowledge about benefits from improvements in coastal and marine waters is key to assessing public support for policies aimed at achieving such changes. We propose a new approach to account for variability in benefits related to differences in socio-demographics of respondents, by using a structural model of discrete choice. Our method allows to incorporate a wide range of socio-demographics as explanatory variables in conditional multinomial logit models without the risk of collinearity; the model is estimated jointly and hence more statistically efficient than the alternative, typically used approaches. We apply this new technique to a study of the preferences of Latvian citizens towards improvements of the coastal and marine environment quality. We find that overall, Latvians are willing to pay for reducing losses of biodiversity, for improving water quality for recreation by reduced eutrophication, and for reducing new occurrences of invasive alien species. However a significant group within the sample seems not to value environmental improvements in the Baltic Sea, and, thus, is unwilling to support costly measures for achieving such improvements. The structural model of discrete choice reveals substantial heterogeneity among Latvians towards changes in the quality of coastal and marine waters of Latvia.
The study was carried out within the project “Good environmental status through regional coordination and capacity building” (GES-REG) funded by the Central Baltic INTERREG IV A Programme 2007–2013. MC acknowledges the support of the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education and the National Science Centre of Poland (project 2015/19/D/HS4/01972). SS thanks the project “Development of the ships' ballast water management system to reduce biological invasions” (BALMAN, 2015–2017) for funding her work. NH thanks MASTS (HR09011) (www.masts.ac.uk) for funding a part of his work.
2017-04-15T00:00:00ZPakalniete, KristineAigars, JurisCzajkowski, MikołajStrake, SolvitaZawojska, EwaHanley, NickThe ecological status of coastal and marine waterbodies world-wide is threatened by multiple stressors, including nutrient inputs from various sources and increasing occurrences of invasive alien species. These stressors impact the environmental quality of the Baltic Sea. Each Baltic Sea country contributes to the stressors and, at the same time, is affected by their negative impacts on water quality. Knowledge about benefits from improvements in coastal and marine waters is key to assessing public support for policies aimed at achieving such changes. We propose a new approach to account for variability in benefits related to differences in socio-demographics of respondents, by using a structural model of discrete choice. Our method allows to incorporate a wide range of socio-demographics as explanatory variables in conditional multinomial logit models without the risk of collinearity; the model is estimated jointly and hence more statistically efficient than the alternative, typically used approaches. We apply this new technique to a study of the preferences of Latvian citizens towards improvements of the coastal and marine environment quality. We find that overall, Latvians are willing to pay for reducing losses of biodiversity, for improving water quality for recreation by reduced eutrophication, and for reducing new occurrences of invasive alien species. However a significant group within the sample seems not to value environmental improvements in the Baltic Sea, and, thus, is unwilling to support costly measures for achieving such improvements. The structural model of discrete choice reveals substantial heterogeneity among Latvians towards changes in the quality of coastal and marine waters of Latvia.The definite risks and questionable benefits of liberal pre-hospital spinal immobilisationPurvis, Thomas AdamCarlin, BrianDriscoll, Peterhttp://hdl.handle.net/10023/126232018-01-28T00:16:15Z2017-06-01T00:00:00ZIntroduction : The routine practice of pre-hospital spinal immobilisation (phSI) for patients with suspected spinal injury has existed for decades. However, the controversy surrounding it resulted in the 2013 publication of a Consensus document by the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care. The question remains as to whether the quality of evidence in the literature is sufficient to support the Consensus guidelines. This critical review aims to determine the validity of current recommendations by balancing the potential benefits and side effects of phSI. Method: A review of the literature was carried out by two independent assessors using Medline, PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library databases. Manual searches of related journals and reference lists were also completed. The selected body of evidence was subsequently appraised using a checklist derived from SIGN and CASP guidelines, as well as Crombie's guide to critical appraisal. Results: No reliable sources were found proving the benefit for patient immobilisation. In contrast there is strong evidence to show that pre-hospital spinal immobilisation is not benign with recognised complications ranging from discomfort to significant physiological compromise. The published literature supports the Consensus guideline recommendations for safely reducing the impact of these side effects without compromising the patient. Conclusion: The literature supports the Consensus Guidelines but raises the question as to whether they go far enough as there is strong evidence to suggest phSI is an inherently harmful procedure without having any proven benefit. These results demonstrate an urgent need for further studies to determine its treatment effect.
2017-06-01T00:00:00ZPurvis, Thomas AdamCarlin, BrianDriscoll, PeterIntroduction : The routine practice of pre-hospital spinal immobilisation (phSI) for patients with suspected spinal injury has existed for decades. However, the controversy surrounding it resulted in the 2013 publication of a Consensus document by the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care. The question remains as to whether the quality of evidence in the literature is sufficient to support the Consensus guidelines. This critical review aims to determine the validity of current recommendations by balancing the potential benefits and side effects of phSI. Method: A review of the literature was carried out by two independent assessors using Medline, PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library databases. Manual searches of related journals and reference lists were also completed. The selected body of evidence was subsequently appraised using a checklist derived from SIGN and CASP guidelines, as well as Crombie's guide to critical appraisal. Results: No reliable sources were found proving the benefit for patient immobilisation. In contrast there is strong evidence to show that pre-hospital spinal immobilisation is not benign with recognised complications ranging from discomfort to significant physiological compromise. The published literature supports the Consensus guideline recommendations for safely reducing the impact of these side effects without compromising the patient. Conclusion: The literature supports the Consensus Guidelines but raises the question as to whether they go far enough as there is strong evidence to suggest phSI is an inherently harmful procedure without having any proven benefit. These results demonstrate an urgent need for further studies to determine its treatment effect.Earnout financing in the financial services industryBarbopoulos, Leonidas G.Molyneux, PhilWilson, John O.S.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126222018-01-28T00:16:09Z2016-10-01T00:00:00ZThis paper explores the effects of earnout contracts used in US financial services M&A. We use propensity score matching (PSM) to address selection bias issues with regard to the endogeneity of the decision of financial institutions to use such contracts. We find that the use of earnout contracts leads to significantly higher acquirer abnormal (short- and long-run) returns compared to counterpart acquisitions (control deals) which do not use such contracts. The larger the size of the deferred (earnout) payment, as a fraction of the total transaction value, the higher the acquirers’ gains in the short- and long-run. Both acquirer short- and long-run gains increase when the management team of the target institution is retained in the post-acquisition period.
2016-10-01T00:00:00ZBarbopoulos, Leonidas G.Molyneux, PhilWilson, John O.S.This paper explores the effects of earnout contracts used in US financial services M&A. We use propensity score matching (PSM) to address selection bias issues with regard to the endogeneity of the decision of financial institutions to use such contracts. We find that the use of earnout contracts leads to significantly higher acquirer abnormal (short- and long-run) returns compared to counterpart acquisitions (control deals) which do not use such contracts. The larger the size of the deferred (earnout) payment, as a fraction of the total transaction value, the higher the acquirers’ gains in the short- and long-run. Both acquirer short- and long-run gains increase when the management team of the target institution is retained in the post-acquisition period.OGLE-2016-BLG-1190Lb : the first Spitzer bulge planet lies near the planet/brown-dwarf boundaryRyu, Y. H.Yee, J. C.Udalski, A.Bond, I. A.Shvartzvald, Y.Zang, W.Figuera Jaimes, R.Jorgensen, U. G.Zhu, W.Huang, C. X.Jung, Y. K.Albrow, M. D.Chung, S. J.Gould, A.Han, C.Hwang, K. H.Shin, I. G.Cha, S. M.Kim, D. J.Kim, H. W.Kim, S. L.Lee, C. U.Lee, D. J.Lee, Y.Park, B. G.Pogge, R. W.Calchi Novati, S.Carey, S.Henderson, C. B.Beichman, C.Gaudi, B. S.Mróz, P.Poleski, R.Skowron, J.Szymański, M. K.Soszyński, I.Kozłowski, S.Pietrukowicz, P.Ulaczyk, K.Pawlak, M.Abe, F.Asakura, Y.Barry, R.Bennett, D. P.Bhattacharya, A.Donachie, M.Evans, P.Fukui, A.Hirao, Y.Itow, Y.Kawasaki, K.Koshimoto, N.Li, M. C.A.Ling, C. H.Masuda, K.Matsubara, Y.Miyazaki, S.Muraki, Y.Nagakane, M.Ohnishi, K.Ranc, C.Rattenbury, N. J.Saito, ToSharan, A.Sullivan, D. J.Sumi, T.Suzuki, D.Tristram, P. J.Yamada, T.Yamada, T.Yonehara, A.Bryden, G.Howell, S. B.Jacklin, S.Penny, M. T.Mao, S.Fouqué, PascalWang, T.Street, R. A.Tsapras, Y.Hundertmark, M.Bachelet, E.Dominik, M.Li, Z.Cross, S.Cassan, A.Horne, K.Schmidt, R.Wambsganss, J.Ment, S. K.Maoz, D.Snodgrass, C.Steele, I. A.Bozza, V.Burgdorf, M. J.Ciceri, S.D'Ago, G.Evans, D. F.Hinse, T. C.Kerins, E.Kokotanekova, R.Longa, P.MacKenzie, J.Popovas, A.Rabus, M.Rahvar, S.Sajadian, S.Skottfelt, J.Southworth, J.Von Essen, C.http://hdl.handle.net/10023/126212018-01-30T09:30:08Z2017-12-28T00:00:00ZWe report the discovery of OGLE-2016-BLG-1190Lb, which is likely to be the first Spitzer microlensing planet in the Galactic bulge/bar, an assignation that can be confirmed by two epochs of high-resolution imaging of the combined source-lens baseline object. The planet's mass, Mp = 13.4 ± 0.9 MJ, places it right at the deuterium-burning limit, i.e., the conventional boundary between "planets" and "brown dwarfs." Its existence raises the question of whether such objects are really "planets" (formed within the disks of their hosts) or "failed stars" (low-mass objects formed by gas fragmentation). This question may ultimately be addressed by comparing disk and bulge/bar planets, which is a goal of the Spitzer microlens program. The host is a G dwarf, M host = 0.89 ± 0.07 M⊙, and the planet has a semimajor axis a ∼ 2.0 au. We use Kepler K2 Campaign 9 microlensing data to break the lens-mass degeneracy that generically impacts parallax solutions from Earth-Spitzer observations alone, which is the first successful application of this approach. The microlensing data, derived primarily from near-continuous, ultradense survey observations from OGLE, MOA, and three KMTNet telescopes, contain more orbital information than for any previous microlensing planet, but not quite enough to accurately specify